Electronic waste disposal options are few but still available. These devices exist throughout our homes and work-spaces. Televisions, DVD players, office machines, laptops, tablets, smartphones, desktops and many more, all become electronic waste the moment they are no longer useful. Which means, once those devices stop working or you're ready to trade-up, you'll need to know what electronic waste disposal options are out there for you to use.
What makes Electronic Waste Disposal so Difficult
About 2 percent of all landfill content in the United States alone is electronic waste. But, e-waste represents an incredible 70 percent of all toxic material waste. Worldwide, 20 to 50 million metric tons of electronic waste are disposed each year. Of that, approximately 9.4 million tons is produced by Americans. And, 12.5 percent of electronic waste is recycled, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
Cell phones continue to top of the list. Roughly nine-in-ten American adults (92 percent) own a mobile phone of some kind. Although these mobile devices are ubiquitous today, the share of adults who own one has risen substantially since 2004, when Pew Research conducted its first poll on cell ownership. At that time, 65 percent of Americans owned a cell phone. --Pew Research Center
But, even though it is so ubiquitous, electronic waste disposal options remain scant. This is due to the fact that electronic waste contains so many hazardous materials. In other words, the components inside are dangerous and that’s what makes it so very hard to unload. The fact of the matter is, it’s extraordinary difficult to manage so much waste.
Top Electronic Waste Disposal Options in Orange Park
Unlike ordinary household trash, when it comes to electronic waste disposal, appliances and hazardous materials, you can’t simply put it on the curb for pick up. So, here are the top electronic waste disposal options you can try out:
- Sell it. Yes, sell it. There are places which buy (for very little money), used electronics. While you won't end up with a windfall, you'll achieve your goal.
- Donate it. If it's in working condition, you might be able to donate it to a local church, school, or shelter. It's worth a try and you might even receive a tax write-off in return. Keep in mind, though, it's got to be in working, usable condition to donate it.
- Give it away. You can also give it away. Just put the word out and spread it far and wide. Someone might find it useful and welcome. Or, sell your e-waste online to hobbyists. For example, if you have several smartphones or tablets, they might be appealing to someone else.
- Take it to a local recycling center. Some large retailers offer recycling options for electronic waste. Before you cart that stuff to one of these recycling collection spots, be sure to call ahead and ask what is and what isn’t accepted.
If you need electronic waste disposal, go ahead and phone 800-433-1094 or visit AAA Rousse Services.