Technology changes and progresses at an incredible rate, and sometimes a newer version of the devices you own will come out just a few months after you purchased them. This can be incredibly frustrating, and the best way to overcome it is to do your research before making a purchase, so that you know when upgrades or new devices are coming out. Even if you make sure that you purchase the most up to date technology, eventually something new will come out, or your device will be broken and need replacing. But after you purchase your replacement, what do you do with the older or damaged technology which you will no longer use? It might be too out of date to be worth selling, or broken beyond repair. Don’t throw it away in the trash, because this can be very bad for the environment. You can call us and we can give you some better alternatives and proper steps, such as these below.
Wipe all of your Information
No matter what you decide to do with your old technology, it is important that you wipe or destroy the hard drive. This will prevent others from stealing your information for malicious purposes. Some services which help you to recycle your computers will take care of this for you, but it is best to do it yourself to be sure it is done properly. If the computer will be used again, you can wipe it, but if it will be trash, you can destroy the hard drive.
Donate Your Computer
Once your information has been cleaned from the device, a great way to recycle your technology is to donate it. There are many places that will take technology donations and put them to use for the less fortunate, or charitable purposes. If a computer is still in working order, or only needs minor repairs, then it doesn’t matter if it is a little out of date. It can still be put to good use. Some great places to recycle your computer by donation include:
- StRUT
- Reconnect
- The Wireless Foundation
- Komputers 4 Kids
- eBay Giving Works
Your computers can be a gift or blessing to others, and this is a great way to help the less fortunate in your community.
Recycle with an Official Service
If the computer or device is broken and can’t be salvaged, then it is important to dispose of it properly. Throwing it in the trash can contribute to terrible environmental problems and be very hazardous. You should find an official computer recycling service to help you out. Major retailers such as Best Buy and Apple often have computer recycling programs which you can use, but there will be a few local options for you as well. It all depends on what is most convenient. Just make sure you aren’t tossing your electronics in the trash, or using an unethical service. Some unethical technology disposal places will simply disassemble your machine for the reusable parts that can be sold, and still toss the rest into a landfill. This isn’t solving the problem at all. Look into what the company ACTUALLY does with your e-waste before handing it over. If you recycle your computer properly, the environment will thank you.