People are purchasing more electronic devices than ever. Technology advancements allow us to have a powerful computer in our pocket as a smartphone, but this convenience comes at a price.
With new products constantly reaching the market, there is an almost constant need to upgrade. That means you need to do something with what has become obsolete instead of relying on Toronto junk removal services to create space for your product updates.
Far too often, those unwanted electronics reach the trash bin.
Recycling old electronics reduces what goes to landfills while protecting the environment. It is also essential to evaluate your current and future needs to see if there are ways to reduce how much e-waste you produce.
What Are the Ways to Reduce E-Waste in Your Community?
Before purchasing new electronics, consider if there is a real need that this investment fills. It often helps to use devices with multiple functions to reduce the e-waste you’ll produce when those items reach the end of their usable lives.
After you’ve asked yourself if the electronics are needed, these additional strategies can help avoid creating e-waste.
1. Extend the Life of Each Product
Simple techniques and proactive maintenance ensure that your electronic device investments maximize their returns. Here are some steps you can take to help these items last longer.
- Clean each device regularly.
- Purchase a high-quality impact-resistant case to prevent breakage.
- Avoid overcharging the battery whenever possible.
If you upgrade your device, consider recycling electronics you’re not using for music or GPS needs while driving.
2. Donate to Charities and Social Programs
When you can reuse old electronics, you’ll keep more items out of landfills and community waste management systems. If an item is obsolete to you, it might be the perfect item for someone who doesn’t have anything. Consider donating the gently used product to a charity or social program that distributes phones, computers, and similar items to those in need.
If your newer electronics break down, consider repairing the components instead of replacing the entire item. Work with a qualified Toronto junk removal e-waste recycler in your community if that isn’t a possibility.
3. Save Raw Materials
E-waste recycling is essential because electronics require rare earth elements as part of the manufacturing process. As demand increases, so does the need to produce these raw materials to create devices.
There are seventeen rare earth elements, but 15 of them are in the lanthanide series. Neodymium is especially popular, but there are also small amounts of palladium, platinum, gold, and silver going into modern electronics. We lose this value if the items go to the landfill.
Recycling electronics uses less energy while producing fewer greenhouse gases.
4. Store Data in the Cloud
Instead of purchasing more devices to store files and information, consider using cloud-based services on the internet. You’ll keep access to what you need while limiting the number of memory sticks or cards that float around your home or office.
5. Purchase Environmentally Friendly Items
ENERGY STAR is an international mark that shows an electronic product is certified as a high-efficiency item. When you shop for items with this symbol, you’ll reduce your impact on the environment with each purchase. An updated list is found online.
Avoiding e-waste helps reduce clutter while lessening your impact on the environment. Recycling these items, including televisions, printers, stereos, VCRs, and even old cords or wires, can give you space while supporting your community. Knowing how to recycle e-waste often starts by understanding what you need – and when you need it.
