You probably use tons of electronics. But what do
you do with them when they're old or no longer
work? If you just toss them, they can create hazardous
waste, so be sure to recycle them! Try the
following tips for cutting down on electronic waste.
- Take it back. Some companies will take back your old electronics to reuse them. Check out Earth911.com for a list of participating manufacturers and stores.*
- Recycle it. You can find Web sites that will pay you or give you reward points. Try MyBoneYard.com, GreenPhone.com and eBay.EZtradein.com. You can check out Earth911.com to find recycling drop-off locations. The Web site www.ban.org/pledge/ locations.html has a list of responsible recyclers.*
- Donate it. Schools, thrift stores and nonprofits often use "retired" electronics. Many police departments, shelters and cell phone companies take cell phone donations. ReCellular.com helps consumers donate old cell phones. The National Cristina Foundation (cristina.org) can help you find charities, schools and public agencies that will take your stuff. Or see if a friend or family member could use your unwanted item.*
- "Freecycle" or "craigslist" it. Freecycle.org connects donors with takers. You can also sell or give away items on craigslist.com. The listings are local, so you don't have to ship anything.*
- Trade it in. Stores that sell video games and movies might let you trade them in for store credit.
* Web sites are for informational purposes. No endorsement is implied.
