Electronics recycling is essential for the environment, as old electronic devices contain many toxic materials. Proper processing prevents these materials from leaking into the environment. The Apple MacBook Air with Retina display, for example, contains more than 40 percent recycled content. In addition to recycling the old electronics, the recycling process also prevents the manufacture of new components from using up valuable raw materials. Many large brands have programs to collect and recycle old electronics.

The process of electronics recycling begins with inventorying the materials. Then, an electronics recycling company provides an estimate of what you can expect to receive for them. Some of these items may be refurbished, others may be shredded, and others may be sold for raw materials. The process is not expensive and you won’t incur any fees.

California Electronics Recycler creates jobs and is good for the environment. It keeps harmful chemicals out of landfills and reduces the need for mining new materials. Some programs even refurbish old electronics. And while these programs do provide employment, it is important to note that some e-waste recycling centers will be unable to meet the demand if the amount of electronics continues to grow.

Electronics recycling is becoming a widespread practice. Besides the environmental benefits, it also benefits the economy. Besides reducing landfill space, the recycling of electronics helps people in need. For example, one Los Angeles initiative is assisting formerly incarcerated individuals with their new skills. The program processes 30,000 to 40,000 pounds of electronics each week and aims to refurbish more than 5,000 computers by 2020.

The United States Department of Commerce estimates that between fifty percent and eighty percent of obsolete electronic equipment is shipped to third world countries. The cycle continues when these e-wastes are exported, with the non-biodegradable toxins coming back to the United States as manufactured goods and food products. Furthermore, exporting electronics can also lead to an increased risk of identity theft.

There is a growing surplus of electronic waste around the world, due to rapid changes in technology, changing media, and planned obsolescence. But the good news is there is a technical solution for this problem. ERI is a world leader with the lowest downstream footprint in the industry and has zero electronic waste entering landfills and developing countries.

E-waste is toxic, and if left to sit in landfills, it will remain there forever. Not only is it a threat to our planet, but the toxins released into the air, soil, and groundwater could have detrimental effects on our health. As a result, we should make every effort to reduce our consumption of electronics and recycle them responsibly.

Even if it may be challenging at times, there are specialists that have made it their field of expertise to handle the correct disposal of electronic waste. These specialists have previous expertise working with e-waste and hold certifications bestowed upon them by third-party certifying bodies. These certificates guarantee that recycling is carried out in a manner that is both responsible to the environment and to the community as a whole.