Classrooms across the nation rely increasingly on technology as part of the curriculum. From digital boards to computer labs, not only are teachers using technology to engage students in new ways and encourage active participation, students also are learning computer literacy from an earlier age in order to prepare for a more digital world. Just as important as using technology responsibly for education, though, is disposing of it responsibly; with the need for the latest tech creating a high turnover rate of IT assets, schools must develop a plan for addressing e-waste.
How to Dispose of E-Waste
Old computers, hardware and electronic devices are all forms of e-waste, as are supplies like used inkjet cartridges, batteries, cables, headsets, chargers and more. Many of these contain harmful substances—such as battery acid, heavy metals and flame retardant materials—as well as substances like chlorine or bromine released as materials degrade. When simply thrown away with the rest of the trash, these substances often escape into the environment via fumes or leaking into groundwater.
Instead of disposing of e-waste in the same way as other forms of waste, take it to a recycling center or have them come pick it up—many businesses are able and willing to offer this latter service. Additionally, manufacturers sometimes have programs for receiving old devices to be recycled, and local community centers may have scheduled recycling drives for residents to bring in electronics for collection. To make it easier to separate e-waste from everything else, set up specially labeled recycling bins alongside trash cans so that they’re visible and accessible. Used computers and hardware that get replaced can also be collected.
What Electronic Assets Can Be Recycled?
The term “e-waste” covers a wide range of deprecated devices and equipment, as well as items and materials used with or produced by these assets. Certified electronics recycling centers can handle many forms of e-waste, many of which can be found in a school environment. These include:
- Desktops and laptops, including LCD or CRT monitors and most other hardware and peripherals;
- External hard drives and other storage media;
- Cellphones and tablets;
- Digital projectors and whiteboards;
- Inkjet printers, fax machines and copiers, as well as ink cartridges;
- Televisions;
- Household batteries, including lithium ion;
- Cables, wires and chargers.
What Happens to E-Waste?
E-waste collected by a certified recycling center is handled according to standards set by the EPA, in order to ensure environmental and worker safety and focus on reuse of materials and devices. End-of-life IT assets can be scrapped for recyclable materials, but much of this discarded equipment is still functional, especially when it was discarded in favor of newer replacements. Fortunately, recycling companies can inspect your equipment and, if it’s found to be usable, buy it from you and refurbish it for reuse, giving it a new lease on life and keeping it out of the landfill. This includes secure data destruction so no old files resurface for new users to find.
Whatever the result, you’ll receive a certified report on the items liquidated and processed, verifying that they were done so responsibly.
To learn more about how we can help you, check out the services we perform here or contact us to ask questions or receive a quote today.
TechWaste Recycling directly services all of Southern California and provides pickup services to its facilities from nationwide locations. Visit TechWaste Recycling’s website at www.techwasterecycling.com to schedule a pickup that works for your convenience and schedule.
Learn more about TechWaste’s e-waste recycling process here: Ewaste Recycling Services
Contact Info:
Richard Steffens
1940 E. Occidental street
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Phone: 866-637-8469
