E-waste is a growing problem, and with that, comes the need for effective electronic recycling programs all over. People are looking more for information on Television recycling, computer or laptop recycling, and various other programs that will help them responsibly get rid of unwanted electronic waste equipment while minimizing any risk of threat on information or identity theft.

With the growing new cheap and affordable devices, society has come up with the tremendous benefits. This vast growth in the electronics industry, however, has led to a rapidly escalating serious issue of end-of-life (E.O.L.) electronics or e-waste.

This serious issue is receiving an increased attention by policymakers, industry, and consumers alike. This is good news because many consumers are still not sure how to safely dispose of old computers, smart phones or other electronic devices.

According to some reports, nearly 75% of old electronics continue to be stored in households because of the unavailability of a convenient way of recycling options.

This article looks at some of the basic questions, such as defining e-waste, exploring why it is important, how consumers can recycle, legislations, and the issue of the international shipment of hazardous e-waste.

So why is Electronics waste Recycling Important?

Rich Source of Raw Materials Internationally, only 10-15% of the gold in e-waste is successfully recovered while the rest is lost. Ironically, electronic waste contains deposits of precious metal estimated to be between 40 and 50 times richer than ores mined from the earth, according to the United Nations reports.

Solid Waste Management because the explosion of growth in the electronics industry combined with short product life cycle has led to a rapid escalation in the generation of solid waste.

Toxic Materials because old electronic devices contain toxic substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium and chromium, proper processing is essential to ensure that these materials are not released into the environment. They may also contain other heavy metals and potentially toxic chemical flame retardants.

International Movement of Hazardous Waste The uncontrolled movement of e-waste to countries where cheap labor and primitive approaches to recycling have resulted in health risks to local residents exposed to the release of toxins continues to an issue of concern.

How Can Consumers play a role in Recycling their Old Electronic Devices?

Consumers have access to a number of recycling opportunities, depending upon where they live. Thinking in terms of the electronics recycling ladder, the best choice is to donate computer equipment that can be refurbished or reused as is, provided that personal information is forever deleted from devices.

Other recycling opportunities include authorized electronics recycle locations, electronics recycling events, or corporate take back programs such as those offered by Best Buy.

Additionally, other programs are available to help consumers with the recycling of cell phones and batteries, such as through Call2Recycle.

Are we Allowed to Throw E-Waste in the Trash?

Whether or not you are allowed to throw electronic devices into the trash, may depend on device and location. Refer to specific laws, but please take a step in recycling the unused.