If you just finished your summer cleaning, you probably found an electronic device or two you no longer need. It could be an old laptop that you’ve already replaced or it could be an old kitchen appliance that has finally failed. Unfortunately, most curbside e-waste recycling programs do not collect electronics and appliances so you’ll have to go out of your way to keep your old devices from ending up in a landfill.
But it’s worthwhile because proper disassembly reveals that most devices consist almost entirely of recyclable parts. In addition, some electronics contain chemicals that can be harmful to the environment if left to degrade at the dump. We’ll show you four simple ways to responsibly dispose of your unwanted devices: trade-in, sell, donate and recycle.
Buy-Back Program
Recycling your old electronics is a noble effort, but ideally, you should get something in return. If you want the simplest way to recycle for cash, choose a trade-in program.
Some of the most popular buy-back programs are run by retailers, such as Amazon and Best Buy, which provide online tools to help you estimate the value of your device as well as shipping labels to send them in for free. We will credit you with a gift card after we accept your device.
Most trade-in programs will pay you a flat rate based on the device, condition and payout option you select. It’s quick and easy but you’ll usually make less money than if you found a private buyer if you want to maximize your profit.
Sell Your Electronics Online
Someone is willing to pay for devices that still have some life in them. Even broken electronics can be worth a lot of money in spare parts. If you put in a little more effort, you can find an interested buyer and earn a nice payday.
Reach out to prospective buyers in your area for free using websites, like Craigslist, or apps, like Let go, or you can advertise your sale to a larger audience for a small fee using an online auction site, like eBay.
If no buyers are interested, show your generosity by giving your device to someone who can use it.
Give Away or Donate Your Electronics
Giving away your old electronics is another environmentally-friendly option that makes you feel good about yourself. As with selling, you can easily find takers for giveaways by posting your listing in the “free” section on sites, like Craigslist.
Numerous non-profit organizations accept electronics and appliance donations. You can do some online research to see if there is a local organization actively soliciting donations and, if not, it doesn’t hurt to call around to see if you can find someone who is.
Schools, tutoring centers, churches and civic organizations frequently request electronic devices, such as operable computers, tablets and mobile phones. Organizations that help people transition from homelessness or abusive environments can transfer other household electronics and appliances to new owners. Many organizations will come to your location to pick up your large items.
Recycle Everything You Can
Electronic recycling requires specialists to disassemble devices into parts before recycling. So, don’t expect anyone to reuse your old VCR if you toss it in a bin.
Drop-off bins for old computers, phones, cables, chargers and other electronics are available at some electronics retailers, including Best Buy. However, the Consumer Technology Association’s Greener Gadgets search tool is the simplest way to find an appropriate drop-off location near you. Enter your zip code to find a list of all nearby free electronic disposal locations.
Giving your old electronics a new lease on life is a simple but meaningful way to make a difference, whether you recycle it or find it a new home. As your old electronics become obsolete, use these options to ensure that none of them end up in a landfill.
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