Have you heard of electronics recycling? Almost 100% of all electronic waste can be recycled. Recycling electronics is not quite as easy as paper and plastics. Any item with electrical components, such as those with a battery, have certain requirements. These items cannot simply be thrown in the blue recycling bin at work.
Electronic items become electronic waste when their time is up. The batteries, wires, and screens of electronic waste need to be carefully recycled. Here’s how a business can do so responsibly.
It’s About More Than Business Computer Recycling.
Over 255,000 tons of computer gear was collectively dumped in the trash in 2010, instead of being recycled. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, says that on average only about 12.5% of electronic waste is recycled each year. While everyone should recycle, here are a few reasons why the average business should institute an electronics recycling policy.
What Is Responsible Business Electronic Recycling?
It is not uncommon for businesses to upgrade their equipment periodically. Any electronic device such as computers, but also phones, televisions, special screens, modems, and storage are candidates for business electronic recycling practices. A business can choose to box up these items and take them to recycling themselves. Another choice is to hire an outside company to do the job instead.
How Can a Business Successfully Integrate a Waste Disposal Plan?
The best option for most processes is to have a plan before hand, if possible. In the case of business recycling, this might mean developing a dedicated process before the new electronic replacements come in. Doing so could cut down on electronic waste cluttering the office. Instead of moving the electronic waste yourself, hire a company to pick it up instead. It saves both time and effort, which makes participating in a recycling program easier.
Why Is Electronic Waste Recycling Important?
Electronic waste should not end up in the regular waste management system. The chemicals used in electronic devices are harmful if disposed of incorrectly. The various components such a glass, tubes, and wires are not meant to be dealt with by the same waste disposal system that handles food waste. As companies have a higher possession of electronics, the way they dispose of them matters.
It might surprise some people to learn that nearly 100% of electronic waste could be recycled in some way. Old computers and other components can be reformed into new serviceable items. To reject a basic business electronic recycling plan is to reject an important green practice. While it is best to have a policy in place before new electronic gear arrives, the sooner it is responsibly removed the better.
