Electronic Recycling

This Saturday and Sunday, Octo 8 - 9 @ g Green Design - Mashpee we'll be having a Electronic Recycling drop off event. So bring all those old computers. cell phones, TVs and unuseable VCRs to send off for reuse and repurposing! For those of you who can't make it here is some info about the where, how, and what of electronic recycling . 


Obsolete computers or other electronics are a valuable source for secondary raw materials, if treated properly; if not treated properly, they are a source of toxins and carcinogens. Rapid technology change, low initial cost, and even planned obsolescence have resulted in a fast-growing surplus of computer or other electronic components around the globe.


In reaction to this the EPA as well as several non-profits have organized eCycle initiatives to make it easier than ever to get rid of your old computers, cell phones and household electronics. eCycling Central is a great resource with state by state listings of drop of locations with programs for recycling electronics. Always make sure to call ahead before you drop off, though. Oftentimes these locations aren't equipped to take broken or severely outdated equipment. Many manufacturers will actually take back their products when they are no longer useable. Visit the National Center for Electronics Recycling to find more info on which manufacturers recycle electronics. 


Once your old electronics are donated, what happens to them? Audiovisual components, televisions, VCRs, stereo equipment, mobile phones, other handheld devices, and computer components contain valuable elements and substances suitable for reclamation, including lead, copper, and gold. Your electronics are usually dismantled and separated based on their materials. Some computer components can be reused in assembling new computer products, while others are reduced to metals that can be reused in applications as varied as construction, flatware, and jewelry.