I recently read that 90 million tons of recycled electronic waste was gathered and processed in 2011. In 2010, that number was 70 million. And this number will increase further as the American public continues to purchase retail electronics at a staggering pace, even despite the current economic climate. New device versions that push retailers to “upgrade” customers in the electronics world contribute to this wasteful climate. This is not necessarily the fault of consumers, since they usually need these new products so they can stay up to date. For instance, many people that I run across in the business community in Northern Arizona will go buy a new computer laptop when the old version of Windows they are running becomes non-compatible with programs they need to use in business or everyday life. When Windows is charging you upwards of $799 to upgrade to their new version and a new up-to-date laptop is available for $599, there is really only one obvious choice.
But then what happens to the old computer device that was being used? Just four or five years ago, many people would have just tossed that old laptop in the trash where it would end up in a landfill. Some people might have donated it to their local school or church, which for many reasons, is much better than the landfill option.
Today, the situation is different. Many retailers are becoming involved in local E-Waste recycling programs that not only keep those old electronics away from landfills, but also can put some cash back into the customers’ pocket to defer the cost of that new device. Make sure when you go to trade in your old model, you do our homework first – make sure you know and understand the value of used electronics. The Internet can be a helpful starting point, but also a hindrance by possibly misinforming customers of actual value either on the high or low end. A professional rule of thumb is if it works, it has more value, of course, but remember that even if your item is broken, it can sometimes still have some value. About 90 percent of the material inside old computers, laptops, notebooks, cell phones, iPods/Pads, etc. can be recycled and used to manufacture new devices. From the scrap silver and gold all the way down to the plastic outer casings, these recycled materials help keep costs down and keep our environment clean – a win-win for us all! FBN
If you would like more information on how to e-recycle your business e-waste, or you would like to start your own e-recycle fundraiser for your local Flagstaff business or nonprofit organization, please contact the Just Wireless Inc. corporate office for more details. The program is FREE for all participants to join!