What is the process of Electronic Recycling?

Electronics have become of our lives. We have more than 20 gadgets in our house. As we move towards new devices, we have to do something about the old ones. Recycling is the only viable option for the proper disposal of these electronic devices. So, what is the process of electronics recycling? It might seem complicated which it is not. Just to give you a heads-up. We only recycle 15 % of electronics. 45 % of electronic waste goes to landfills and the rest 40% is sent to countries like Ghana. This article will teach you what the process of electronic recycling is and how you can recycle your electronics responsibly.

What is Electronic Waste?

Electronic waste is the by-product of electronics that has run its course. A normal person can not amount what is electronic waste. The only way to distinguish electronic waste is a device having a circuit board. The most common electronic waste is cell phones, televisions, computers, and appliances. Electronic waste is the fastest-growing trash in the world. We are the biggest contributor to electronic waste. Reclamation helps reuse materials than mining for new ones. The recycling process helps us protect the environment and lessen greenhouse gases.

What is inside electronics?

Almost all electronic devices contain toxic chemicals and precious metals. Recycling is the only process that helps extract precious metals while disposing of toxic chemicals. If thrown in the trash these electronics go to a landfill. These toxic chemicals will most likely seep and contaminate the soil.

Why is Recycle Technologies the better contender?

To avoid this from happening we suggest you contact your local recycling service to properly dispose of electronics. If your local recycling is unresponsive then you may call us instead. We provide affordable recycling solutions and have state-of-the-art facilities in New Berlin, Waukesha, and Blaine, Minnesota. Our mail-in program is perfect for out-of-state residents.

Here is a step-by-step process of electronic recycling

As electronics house a variety of precious metals, recycling electronic waste requires several steps to recover these resources. This helps us rely less on natural resources. The reclaimed resources are of much more fine quality than what we mined in the first place. The process of electronic recycling requires both manpower and machinery during this process. Machinery helps us to recover these precious metals at the same time manpower helps us to work efficiently and safely.

Collection and Transport

The first step to properly dispose of electronic waste involves the collection of the waste. If for some reason your local sanitation authority is not accepting your trash. Your best bet will be to contact private recyclers. Some recyclers might pick up your unwanted electronics. Most recyclers use load bars to properly secure electronics for safe travel to the facility.

Sorting

The next process of electronic recycling involves the sorting of electronics. As your electronics reach our state-of-the-art facility. Our team will start to sort the electronic waste. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Evaluation and Separation

After the sorting process completes our team will do a final check to ascertain the status of electronic devices. If they can’t be fixed or repaired then these devices are most likely sent to our recycling machines. The dismantling of devices into small pieces helps us to easily reclaim precious materials such as aluminum, copper, and plastic. Using magnets, we separate steel and iron fragments from the electronic waste. Using water treatment, we separate plastic and glass fragments. Once all raw materials are properly separated. They are sold to companies and manufacturers to make new electronic devices. This action helps us rely less on virgin resources.

Refinement and Purification

After the electronics are properly broken down, the electronic waste is further evaluated. If it is not up to the mark, we refine it more to enhance its quality. It all depends on the recycling facility to which the electronics are sent. Many recyclers rely on chemical treatment to extract precious metals. These rare earth elements cause a great hazard to life and the environment.

Resale

After all, electronics are broken down to their base model, these elements are either recycled or prepped to sell to the manufacturer that requires them for new devices. The process of electronic recycling is as simple as it appears. In this whole process, EPA guidelines are strictly followed, and we make sure the safety of our staff remains intact.

Recycle with Recycle Technologies

Now that you know how electronic recycling works, it is time to do your thing and send in your unwanted electronics for proper disposal. Recycle Technologies is a Top-tier Midwest Recycler that caters to the residents of both Wisconsin and Minnesota. It has two state-of-the-art facilities in Blaine Minnesota and New Berlin Waukesha.

Our mail-in program helps consumers who can’t reach our facility to send their electronics using FedEx.  We ensure all the recycling of electronics efficiently. We also provide data destruction for all of our customers. You can request a quote or call to see how easy it is for you to dispose of your electronics.

What is the best way to do Commercial Recycling of your Electronics?

Commercial Recycling of Your Electronics

You would never want your business to contribute to a growing global crisis, right? Electronic waste also known as e-waste, is speedily taking its toll on the environment and the population caused in it. So, do you really want to know how can your business handle e-waste responsibly? Let us get aware of the commercial recycling of your electronics and recycling regulations properly.

All of the commercial e-waste disposal laws differ from state to state and are often stricter than the federal laws. You may know a lot more about regulations in your area, all you have to do is to visit the National Center for Electronics Recycling.  You need to be aware of the fact that there are unique obligations under federal and state law on the subject of handling of harmful wastes contained within abandoned appliances, and that it is all your company’s accountability to identify these materials preceding to disposal.

Some examples of components that are considered hazardous waste includes cathode ray tubes (CRTs) that are used in monitors and TVs, cell phones and other hand held devices, and many more. You should also know that reused, refurbished, or recycled items are often exempt from hazardous waste classification.

Understanding of quantity

Over 100 kilograms Facilities generating more than 100 kg (about 220 pounds) in a month of dangerous waste that are regulated by state and federal disposal laws and must be sent to a permissible hazardous waste landfill.

Under 100 kilograms Less than 100 kg of material per month are not needed to be treated as dangerous waste unless state laws require more stringent management.

Commercial e- waste recycling and disposal options include:

1.      EPA certified electronics recyclers.

Sadly, not every e-waste recycler supports good, environmentally friendly disposal procedures. As a result, the EPA promotes both businesses and people to opt for licensed recyclers, such as those endorsed by the EPA’s two standards programs: e-Stewards and R2. For a map of certified electronics refurbishes and recycling facilities, see the EPA’s certification map.

2.      Government supported events.

State, county, and local waste management centers may present specific programs and events as a public service that may be possibly free, for responsibly disposing of electronic and dangerous waste.

3.      Retailer pickup.

In case you have freshly purchased a large electronic or appliance from a store, you need to be sure to investigate about pickup and recycling options that are available to your business. Many of the shops offer free pickup and clearance of your old electronics with delivery of your new purchase.

4.      Donations and charities

Many items in the past utilized by your business can be given a second life through donations and charities. Generosity, Salvation Army, and an array of other charities give businesses and customers in the same way an inexpensive alternative to new items, as well as keeping them out of the landfill. In addition, offered items may be used to provide basic goods and services.

5.      Resale.

We should really be thankful for today’s technology; it is easier than ever to reach a wide array of businesses and people who may be able to give new life to your old electronics. If you have got a little time to spend and would not mind a few extra dollars added to your business’ books, try to list your used electronics on Craigslist, eBay, in the local paper or with a trade organization.

Do not neglect security.                        

Confidential and personal and business information stored on your used electronic devices that has not been securely demolished causes a huge risk and the risk of civil lawsuits if consumer information is negotiated. Health care and financial companies are more likely to be at risk. Be sure to store and dispose of this confidential information properly to avoid federal laws and consequences.

How to Recycle Batteries?

Batteries are an essential part of our life today. Most people have different kinds of battery cells lying about their drawers or cupboards. They are so common that often, they are even overlooked and treated invisible. The history of batteries dates back to the 1800s. Obviously, during that period, less sophisticated versions were created. But as time went on, these technologies were refined and made available for the common man.

Today, you can find batteries in different forms, shapes, and sizes. There are other chemicals present in the battery that creates electricity. Batteries, which we brush off so easily, are responsible for running almost every electronic gadget we use. Because let us be real, without our portable electronic devices, we feel lost and useless.

One of the most commonly used chemistry for a battery is the Lead-Acid battery. They were one of the first invented batteries. Their basic manufacturing principle is still used today in the modern world. Initially, batteries were considered safe for the environment. As a matter of fact, each battery has minimal amounts of lead and other chemicals in them.

This means that their impact on the environment as a single entity is negligible. Considering this fact, you must be confused as to why the concept of recycling batteries is becoming so prevalent in today’s world. The purpose of this article is to explore why and how we should recycle batteries to save the environment.

But before we dive into the details, let us explore a little about batteries and their functions.

What is a Battery?

A battery is a device that contains chemical energy and eventually changes it into electricity.

There are many different kinds of batteries available in the market. Each battery product varies based on the chemicals used inside the battery and how they react. Electroplates may also vary, changing the composition of a battery.

What are Batteries Composed of?

Let us admit it right here and right now that we have all been intrigued as a child to know about a battery's components. And even though we were all taught in school about its composition, we have long forgotten its details (except those who are engineering or battery-related departments). Anyways, to make you understand or revise the components of a battery, here are the details:

Batteries are made up of 3 different components:

1. Anode

This is the negatively charged piece of the battery. It releases electrons into the mixture. The purpose of these electrons is to oxidize the chemical while an electrochemical reaction takes place. In most scenarios, it is made of Graphite or Copper. It is responsible for the reduction of the other metal.

2. Cathode

This part accepts all the electrons provided by the anode or, in other words, reduced during the chemical reaction. The electrons come from the external circuit. Manganese, Cobalt, and Nickel are common metals used to create cathode bars in a battery.

3. Electrolyte

Electrolytes are aqueous solutions of salts, acids, and alkalis. This solution cannot have electrical conductivity. Also, the metallic bars used in the battery must not have any reactivity with the electrolyte. In some batteries, water also works as an electrolyte. In newer cells, solid electrolytes are used as well. Some of the more common electrolytes include Lead Acid, Nickel-Cadmium, Lithium-ion, and many more.

Working of Batteries

There are chemical reactions happening inside the battery, which results in the production of electrons. These excited electrons flow into other devices and eventually provide them the energy to execute their functions. 

*This is a straightforward and layman explanation of how most batteries work. 

Some batteries are disposable, but others can be charged again. Rechargeable batteries have taken over the world in the last few decades, and today most electronic devices run on them. Standard batteries are Nickel-Cadmium batteries.

Problems with Batteries

Batteries seem harmless. But contrary to popular belief, their components pose a threat to the environment, mainly when disposed of carelessly. Different countries around the world have banned batteries that are made from Nickel or Cadmium. With the increase in batteries-oriented cars worldwide, batteries' number increases explosively, especially the Lithium-ion-based batteries.

It is vital to remember that Lithium-ion present in batteries is easily recyclable. Despite this fact being commonly known worldwide, a minimal number of batteries are sent for recycling. Instead, they are thrown away in different landfills. This occupies a lot of space on our Earth and creates negative impacts on the environment.  

Recycling Batteries

With more awareness, the process of recycling batteries is becoming more common. It is estimated that around 50% of the lead supply used to make lead-based batteries comes from a recycled lead from old and unusable batteries.

*Keep it in your mind that hundreds of different types of batteries are available; they are composed of other materials. The materials used in each of these batteries are not necessarily recyclable. 

Even though most mobile devices have recyclable batteries, they are still not recycled as much as they should. As per Battery University, only 20% to 40% of such batteries are recycled annually. This number can be vamped up to large figures if appropriately considered.

Benefits of Recycling Batteries

Time and time again, the benefits of recycling batteries have been highlighted by scientists and environmentalists. Here is a quick overview of their services:

1. Reusable materials

There are so many materials inside a battery that can be used again if they are recycled. There are so many metals that have an exhausting method of mining, refining, and processing. All of this can be avoided if they are extracted from the batteries during the recycling process. This way, the cost to produce the batteries reduces drastically as well.

In short, by recycling and reusing materials inside batteries, you can reduce their mining and extraction process, thus reducing pollution and depletion of rare metals.

2. Keep the Humans Safe

This should be the number one reason batteries are recycled. Batteries are harmful to human beings around them. They are composed of toxic chemicals that can react with different things in the environment. Some batteries end up exploding and catching fire which can cause severe burns and injuries to people around them. Some lithium batteries are more likely to explode than others. You Devastating impacts can be created by batteries when they are not disposed of properly.

3. Keep the Environment Safe

Many of the metals and liquids present in the batteries are harmful to the environment. Once the batteries are thrown in landfills, they slowly start to decompose. There are different toxic materials present in the batteries. Toxic materials, especially mercury, seep into the soil and eventually fall into the nearby water sources. These water sources can be the drinking point for many animals and humans. Imagine all the toxic water that your body will consume.

Moreover, other metals harm the landfill areas by leaving them infertile. Insects, plants, and animals that live in the region all die. They lose their habitat and current ecosystem. In extreme cases, species can go extinct, creating an imbalance in the world.

Steps to Recycle Batteries

Recycling batteries is not an easy task. This is why there are many experts present in the recycling industry who are devoted to recycling batteries. Here are a few basics that are generally followed by the recycling industry.

a).Collection

There are many different outlets where batteries are collected. All over the States, there are disposal points where the batteries come from all around the region.

b).Crushing

In this step, each battery is crushed and taken apart. Some specific machines do this task. The most commonly used device is a hammer mill. Once the battery is put inside the machine, it is torn into tiny pieces.

c).Sorting

Once the battery is decomposed into different pieces, experts separate things from one another. For example, all the plastic and metal content present in the battery is set in an extra pile. If any solution is extracted, it is sorted out through a separate process.

d).Filtering

Filtering further helps in separating dry materials from liquid ones. Metals are cleaned, and the lead is sieved from the remaining pile. All the plastic material taken out from the battery is thoroughly washed and cleaned.

e).Extraction

Through different chemicals and temperatures, various metals are extracted from the pile after the filtration process. If there is lead present in the battery, a particular procedure is applied to make it reusable.

f).Distribution

Most recycling organizations send the decomposed components to different places. For example, all the plastic content is sent out to the organizations that handle and create plastic products. Companies that manufacture batteries are sent the heavy metals and lead components.

g).Certificates

In most cases, recycling organizations provide certificates to those who recycle their batteries to acknowledge their efforts.

*The process for recycling batteries may differ for different kinds of batteries. There is no one solution for the recycling process that fits all batteries. The method mentioned above is generalized. 

Conclusion

Batteries are a wonder of science. They make life very easy and full of unique electronic gadgets. But they can cause a lot of harm to the environment if they are not recycled properly. If you have any batteries lying around the home that are not used and do not work, do your part. Be a responsible citizen of Earth and send it to an organization for recycling. Your job is relatively easy because outlets accepting batteries for recycling are available in every state.

Recycling Technologies provides all kinds of recycling services in the whole United States. For Recycling Batteries in Minnesota & Wisconsin, please check out our services.

How to Recycle Electronics (The easy way)

Electronics are an essential part of our life. From children to old people, everybody owns some sort of electronic gadget. As per Gartner's prediction, more than 75 billion devices will become a part of the online world by the year 2025! The world has around 8 billion population. This means that online gadgets are approximately 9 billion times more than the human population (this does not contain the remaining offline electronics). At some point in their lifespan, electronic gadgets start to lose their life and eventually stop working.

The question now becomes this: what happens to such devices then? In most cases, people dispose of them in their garbage. Different municipalities collect the electronic junk and then throw it away in a nearby dump. This dump generates havoc for the nearby areas. The landfills become infertile, and their toxic material seeps into the nearby region rendering it useless. In this blog, we will discuss electronic waste and how to reduce it through recycling.

What is Electronic Waste?

Before we dig deeper and discover the recycling processes, it is best to understand what electronic waste really is. Here is a quick definition:

Electronic waste, commonly known as E-waste, is the waste created by human beings worldwide when they get rid of their broken, old, or different electronic devices. 

Implications of Mindless Disposing of E-Waste

Most people assume that there is nothing wrong with throwing away their E-waste in the garbage, but they are wrong. There are dire effects of E-waste once it becomes a part of the landfills and other waste. Here are some of the significant problems with improper dumping of E-waste:

Electronic devices have different chemicals in them. Once the outer body starts to rot away in the garbage, the chemicals seep into the surrounding area and eventually intoxicate the surrounding area. In worst-case scenarios, the vicinity's soil and water reserves become poisoned, rendering the land infertile ultimately.

Electronics have multiple kinds of metals in them. For example, most computers have wires of aluminum. Iron is also often found in different devices. Some of these metals react with oxygen in the surrounding and create harmful oxides. These oxides can spread in the nearby region polluting the area and harming living things, including human beings. They make a detrimental impact on the overall environment as well.

Much to your surprise, many electronic devices have many components made of plastics entirely. Plastics do not erode away. They rarely form a reaction with other gases and metals. This means that they are tough to get rid of. The regions that they occupy are mostly left infertile, toxic, and just unlivable for living organisms.

One of the biggest reasons why E-waste is becoming an increasing problem is that it occupies a lot of space on our Earth. An expanding area of dry land is used every year to throw all the electronic waste. This land becomes useless and, in most scenarios, infertile. The ecosystems of that area are completely destroyed. Moreover, the living space for animals, humans, and insects decreases causing even more problems!

The Concept of Recycling

With so many electronic waste issues, it is time to take immediate action and figure out a few remedies. One of the easiest ways to reduce e-waste is to practice the concept of recycling. Recycling is a popular process commonly used for things made up of glass, plastic, or paper. But recycling is very much applicable to things like e-waste. Here is how you can recycle all the electronics in your possession.

Process of Recycling Electronics

Recycling electronics can be a tad bit challenging. You cannot just put in a labeled garbage can of your local community and complete the task. Electronic gadgets are complicated pieces of machinery comprising of different kinds of materials (as discussed previously). There is no one size fits all sort of solution for these kinds of gadgets.

1.      Resell or Reuse Electronic Device

Your electronic device can be slightly damaged or dysfunctional before you want to get rid of it. In such a scenario, please do not throw the device into the garbage. Instead, go to a nearby pawn's shop and ask them if they want to purchase your electronic.

Another way to recycle your electronic device is to give it to someone who needs it. Some people are less fortunate and cannot afford new gadgets. You can help them out by selling your electronic device at a price lower than the market.

One of the best options is to give your device to a school or orphanage. More often than not, these institutions are in dire need of electronic gadgets such as televisions, computers, and laptops. By handing them over your devices, you can help children out in their time of need.

5.      Hire a Service

If you cannot sell or donate your device to any institution, you must dispose of the electronic device yourself. Many different organizations are working continuously to recycle various kinds of electronics. You can contact them and get rid of your devices quickly. Here is a general process that happens if you hire a recycling service for your electronics.

Transportation

Depending upon the organization, you may have to deliver them the electronic device by yourself. There are multiple booths present throughout the States where you can go and submit your electronic device. But these days, most recycling organizations collect the electronics from your doorsteps. From these sites, they collect and transport the e-waste to their head offices and recycling hubs.

Sorting

This is another common step that every organization follows. Once they have all the e-waste collected in one place, they start to sort each device into different categories. For example, electronics such as televisions require a different set of recycling procedures compared to mobile phones. Each machine is sent to its respective department.

Once the devices are separated and sorted, they are broken down to their original conditions. Here a magnet is used to collect all the metal from the glasses and plastics. Chemicals present in those devices are also extracted separately. Glass pieces are o separately. They mold into new forms of glass eventually.

Shredding

Those parts and pieces of electronics that are completely unusable are shredded through different machines. Moreover, harmful chemicals such as Mercury are also removed separately. They are kept in a controlled environment and are destroyed carefully not to negatively impact the environment.

Reusing the Pieces

Usable metals and plastics are sent to different organizations that can reuse them in other products. This way, the cost of the new products reduces because different companies do not have to purchase and make the metals or plastics from scratch.

Benefits of Electronic Recycling

There are numerous benefits attached to electronic recycling. For starters, through proper disposal of e-waste, you reduce the harmful impact of electronic waste on the environment. Another reason why everyone must recycle their electronics is that the recycled bits and pieces are used to manufacture other things. This reduces the overall cost of the product; hence the prices of the product decrease a well.

Conclusion

Recycling electronic waste is becoming mandatory for everyone around the world. We will completely destroy our planet if quick and practical measures are not taken to prevent electronic waste. Every citizen must become responsible and start recycling their electronics immediately!

Recycle Technologies safely handles electronics recycling in Minnesota and Wisconsin. If you're looking for the best recycling services, then Recycle Technologies can take care of it like none other.

Five Every Day Items to Recycle

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There are countless items we use every day that can and should be recycled. Paper and plastic come to mind. As do milk cartons, pop cans and even grass clippings when we compost them. But let’s look at five items we use every day that may be a little harder to recycle. These five every day Items need to be recycled. Let’s take a look at the what and why for each of them.

Computer Accessories

What: Computer accessories, like mice and keyboards, are used every day in our homes and offices. Companies and businesses often have dozens of each of them on site. Ethernet cables, charging cords and external hard drives are also computer accessories that should be recycled.

Why: Mice, keyboards and items like them contain materials like wiring that can be stripped and recycled. That metal can be put back into reuse to make other items. They also have circuit boards that should be recycled for two reasons. First, because, like other accessories, they can be shredded and sorted and the metals found in them can be reused. But also because those circuit boards may contain dangerous chemicals and materials that need to be properly disposed of rather than thrown in a landfill.

Lightbulbs

What: Fluorescent, LED, incandescent and CFL bulbs should all be recycled. You might find fluorescent tube lamps in your garage or basement. LED lights are very common in new light fixtures (like ceiling fans with integrated lighting) or strip lights under counters and cabinets. Incandescent bulbs are slowly fading away, but they are still sold in stores and used in lamps and overhead lights. CFL bulbs are replacing incandescent bulbs as they have a longer life and use less energy.

Why: Fluorescent tube lamps and CFL bulbs contain mercury powder. Mercury powder is harmful to the environment and can contaminate soil and water. If animals or people ingest contaminated water they can become very sick. And contaminated soil makes land useless for plant growth. LED lights contain a circuit board in their base. Similar to keyboards and mice those circuit boards should be shredded for reuse and sorted to remove any hazardous materials. Incandescent bulbs have aluminum bases and wiring inside that can be recycled and reused. The glass from all of these bulbs can also be recycled and put to reuse.

AA and AAA Batteries

What: AA and AAA batteries are the most common type of battery we use to power our TV remotes, children’s toys and other battery operated household items. Smoke detectors and other monitoring devices pull energy from those batteries continuously so they need to be replaced often. AA and AAA batteries can quickly accumulate if consumers make a choice to save for recycling rather than throwing them away.

Why: AA and AAA batteries can be made from a number of different metals and chemicals. Lithium, alkaline and other types all look the same to the untrained eye. But they require different methods for sorting, storage, packing, shipping and recycling. If batteries are dumped in a landfill, over time the outer protective coating can corrode and the chemicals inside leak out. Those chemicals are caught up in rain and runoff and can contaminate soil and water outside the landfill. Additionally, batteries in landfills can easily start fires which are difficult to contain and release toxins into the air.

Cellphones

What: Smartphones and flip phones are used by people of all ages for many different reasons. No longer are phones only used to make calls. We now text, check email, get directions and look up information on them. We use them as cameras, calculators, and calendars.

Why: Both smartphones and flip phones contain circuit boards and require batteries to function. In addition to recycling the circuit boards for metal reuse and to contain hazardous materials, there is plastic and wiring that should also be recycled. The batteries found in cellphones require special handling and processing from collection to shredding in order to ensure safety.

Televisions

What: Televisions are found in homes around the world. Many homes have more than one. They come in a variety of sizes depending on where they are located and how they will be used. Televisions have improved in quality and become much lighter over the years. They’ve also become more affordable. Because of this they are often replaced frequently.

Why: Each type of television, from LCD to plasma to CRT, has its own set of requirements for recycling. CRT televisions contain lead and must be handled properly in order to meet federal and international regulations. CRT televisions also have metals inside that can be recycled and put to reuse. LCD and plasma TVs need to have their screens removed and recycled properly. They also contain circuit boards which we know can be shredded for reuse. They also need to have haz materials separated from non haz materials.

So, there you have it. Five every day Items to recycle. Next time you consider replacing your cell phone or unscrew a burnt out lightbulb to replace it with a more energy efficient type, remember: that item in your hand, the item you hardly even think about, can and should be recycled. Not only because it contains materials that can be reused but also because it may contain hazardous or toxic materials that can harm our soil, water and air if not properly handled.

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America Recycles Day-November 15th

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America Recycles Day

Recycling is a healthy habit and must be practiced by everyone, every day, in every area of life. To raise awareness and emphasize the importance of recycling, the United States observes America Recycles Day on November 15th every year.

Background of Recycling

Humans have been recycling since the beginning of time. Throughout history materials and food have and continue to be conserved and reused. But the rise in the development of materials such as plastics and metals has increased toxic human waste as well as energy expense.

With fast and harmful effects of pollution on our environment, action needs to be taken quickly. One of the easiest ways to preserve and clean the environment is to improve the recycling process. To stress the importance of recycling, America has observed America Recycles Day since 1977.

Significance of Recycling

To understand the importance of America Recycles Day, it's best to understand some of the types of recyclable materials and the areas impacted when we recycling them.

Aluminum

Aluminum is an essential part of the energy creation process. Hundreds of products use aluminum. Using aluminum to create products is very smart because it can be recycled and reused an unlimited number of times.

Recycling one aluminum saves enough energy to run a television for a few hours!

Plastic

Millions of creatures living in the sea choke to death or fall ill because the high volume of plastic bags thrown into the sea, but by recycling plastic bags (and other plastic products), we can reduce the energy and materials wasted during its creation.

Producing a pint-sized bottle of water requires about 2,000 times as much energy as producing the same amount of tap water.

Landfill Space

A lot of recycled material is disposed of and thrown into landfills. Plastics and metals produce toxic content over time which eventually seeps into the soil. Living things nearby like plants and insects are destroyed completely. Their habitats are ruined.

How to Recycle E-Waste

Why is Recycling a Computer Important?

Economy

According to Ecycle.org, there will be an estimated 1.1 million new jobs created in the field of recycling by 2030. Hundreds of companies offer recycling services. Many organizations collect garbage and sort out materials to be recycled. By doing this, job opportunities are created, unemployment is reduced, and the economy is boosted. 

Earth's Resources

Recycling puts huge volumes of resources into a resource cycle. Manufacturers use recycled materials to create hundreds of products, but without caution, Earth will run out of these resources. In parallel, creating and refining new plastics and metals consumes a lot of energy. By implementing recycling processes we reduce the speed at which we use virgin resources.

Participating in America Recycles Day

Despite popular beliefs, there are many different ways a person can celebrate a recycling day. Two ideas easily come to mind.

  1. Make a promise with oneself to practice recycling for the rest of the year. Promote and use the products and services of organizations that believe in and perform recycling. Reduce the number of plastic products that you use throughout the day and look for better options than plastic. Purchase recycled products if there is a dire need to do get something made of plastic or metal.
  2. Participate in the various activities that happen all over the States on recycling day. This makes it easy for you to be involved by attending an event held at your local recycling organization. This will help you in learning new things about the recycling process and many other recycling relevant things. Take pictures and videos throughout the event. And at the end of the day, share them on social media platforms. This not only creates a good impression on people but it also increases their awareness.    

Conclusion

The success of our future generations depends on the environmental conditions we leave behind. Recycling is an important step in cleaning our highly polluted environment. A small contribution can make a big difference in the long run. As socially responsible individuals, we must celebrate Recycling Day with great enthusiasm and work hard to ensure the message reaches everyone around the States.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can one person recycle their products to make a change?

Every single person plays a vital role when it comes to recycling. By following proper recycling methods, you can reduce your carbon footprint and make the environment safer for future generations.

Person by the person, box by box, the environment can be saved!

America Recycles Day lands on November 15th. The following are the days on which America Recycles Day will fall in the five upcoming years.

Year Day Date
2020 Sunday November 15
2021 Monday November 15
2022 Tuesday November 15
2023 Wednesday November 15
2024 Thursday November 15
2025 Friday November 15

American homes throw out large amounts of waste daily. This includes things like paper and plastic which could actually be recycled. But it also includes food waste that could be composted. Unfortunately, America lacks a nationwide system for collecting and recycling curbside compost. Check with your local waste management, county, city or recycling organizations to see what options are available to you.

In almost every state, waste management organizations are responsible for planning events and spreading awareness about America Recycles Day. So you can check with them to get information. In addition, local government municipalities may also host events through privately owned organizations.

Not all recycled products are considered second hand. Materials like plastics, copper wires and aluminum are reused to form completely new products. For example, most plastic office furniture is made up of recycled plastics.

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Why E-waste Recycling is the upmost importance?

Everyone owns an electronic device today. Whether it is a child or a grown adult, everyone owns one. And just like everything in this world, they are bound to stop working at some point and become useless to their owners. It is often assumed that electronics can simply be removed from a person’s belonging by throwing them in the garbage. But that is not the case. Not only is that a complete waste of resources, but it is harmful to the environment as well. 

The bad news is that as per recent studies: e-waste is increasing day by day. 

But the good news is that the concept of recycling e-waste is becoming popular worldwide! 

What is E-Waste?

E-waste includes all those electronic products, gadgets, and devices which are no longer required by their owners. These devices are composed of metals such as copper, lead, silver, and platinum, as well as many toxic chemicals. One of the other common names for e-waste is “Digital Rubbish.”

Some of the gadgets which form a part of e-waste include laptops, printers, mobile phones, LCDs, and more.

E-waste Formation

Now that we understand the concept of e-waste, the next big question becomes: How is e-waste created? The answer to that is very straightforward. Once a person stops using a gadget, they either throw it in the garbage, donate it to a charity organization, or just sell it to an old shop.

At the end of the day, all these gadgets end up in the garbage, which occupies a large space in landfills. Harmful and toxic chemicals leach out of the electronic devices below the landfills, ruining nearby sources of water and land. The impact of all these toxins is horrendous and can cause havoc in the lives of every living being.

How to Recycle E-Waste?

Recycling provides a safer method of discarding electronics around the world.

There are two scenarios when recycling e-waste.

Recycling a Working Device

Many people prefer to upgrade their electronic devices even when their current device is still working. In such a scenario, it is best to give the device to a charity or donation. Some second-hand shops accept used devices and resell them to other people in need.

Many electronic device manufacturers in the industry tend to take back their electronic devices once they get old or lose some of their functionality. These organizations guarantee appropriate e-waste recycling of your old electronic gadgets, making it a very feasible option for recycling purposes.

By following the process of recycling a working device, you can help keep the environment safe. And at the same time, you can help people get the electronic gadget of their dreams at a lower price. 

Recycling a Non-Working Device

Recycling devices that are not working at all can turn into a hassle if the right steps are not taken. The first thing to find is a trusted provider. There are a lot of e-waste recycling organizations out there who, instead of proper and safe recycling of electronic devices, ship them out to third-world countries or burn them instead of following the recycling procedure.

Get to know which company offers the safest and most effective recycling procedure by understanding that procedure yourself. The process to recycle e-waste is complicated and lengthy, but for your better understanding, it is simplified as follows:

1) Separation by Hand

This is the first step in every recycling process. The devices are picked apart by hand carefully to ensure that nothing is damaged. Fixed batteries are taken out of the device. If there is a screen attached to the electronic gadget, it is also removed along with its related components. Different sources of light, such as bulbs, are also removed by hand.

*All components containing chemicals are separated at this stage so that no harmful scenarios occur.

2) Size Reduction

After all the content is removed by hand, the size of each component is reduced. When it comes to some components, a shredder is effective in reducing their size, whereas the size of other pieces is decreased through lasers and similar technology.

3) Magnetic Removal

Once the size of the materials lessens, it becomes effortless to separate them through the use of a magnet. A magnetic device runs over metals, plastics, and glass. The magnet attracts metal such as iron, steel, and others. This leaves out the plastic and glass behind that is picked and used accordingly.

4) Water Separation

In the final step, water is used to differentiate between glass and plastic.

Through these four steps, a non-working device is completely recycled. The metal components are sent out to the organizations which create devices and components from metals. Plastics are shared with plastic-creating companies. 

Where can I drop off e-waste near me?

If you live in Wisconsin or Minnesota then you can easily drop off your e-waste at our recycling facilities. We cover more than a 100-mile radius of our facilities. This gives you the opportunity to use our other services as we do. Government agencies and businesses looking for certified recyclers can rely on us for the disposal of their electronic waste.

With so many steps involved, recycling e-waste can seem like a nuisance. Understanding the need to recycle e-waste helps with self-motivation. Here are the top 5 reasons why it is an absolute need of the time to recycle e-waste:

E-Waste

What happens when I recycle my e-waste at Recycle Technologies Facility?

Eradication of Toxic Materials

Lead and mercury are one of the most common toxic materials present in almost every electronic device. When these toxic materials go into the soil of the landfills they spread poison to the surrounding area. This seeped poison eventually goes into nearby water reserves and soil rendering them useless or even dangerous.  When living things such as animals, humans, plants, and even microorganisms consume water or soil, they become sick with various diseases. In worst-case scenarios, the consumption of polluted water stunts the growth of living things.

By proper recycling of e-waste, toxic materials do not reach landfills, keeping water and the soil, and ultimately, all living things safe. 

Reuse of Raw Materials

E-waste is composed of many materials. More often than not, expensive gadgets have metals like gold, silver, and platinum in them. These metals are precious and difficult to mine, and by extracting them out of useless electronic gadgets, the chance to reuse them in other products increases.

Apart from metals, there are a lot of plastic components in electronic devices. When an electronic gadget is recycled, all the plastic is removed safely and sent to plastic companies for reuse.

Reduce E-waste going to Landfills

So much of landfills are comprised of e-waste these days. With the proper disposal of e-waste, the space consumed by landfills reduces drastically, allowing it to be filled with better things such as plants and trees.

Conserve Energy

Everyone knows for the creation of plastic requires a massive amount of energy. At the same time, mining costs a lot of fuel, energy, and many other resources as well. By reusing these components, a lot of time and energy is reclaimed.

Clean Environment

With less energy consumption and fewer landfills, the environment is bound to become cleaner! By following the proper recycling procedure for our e-waste, we can make our earth healthy and green again.

Also Read: Why is recycling a computer important?

Conclusion

On the one hand, development in technology is a positive factor. But on the other hand, it also signifies that more and more e-waste is coming into being. E-waste is hazardous and is becoming a threat to the environment. Comprehending how to recycle e-waste is becoming a mandatory subject for everyone around the world. Let us join hands by recycling e-waste to create a better Earth for our coming generations!

Recycling - Waste Stream or Source Material?

Recycling has become an essential service across the country and around the world. It seems like everything is recycled from aluminum cans to paper products, plastic bottles to plastic bags, e-waste to food waste. We do it because we know it’s good for our planet. We do it because it feels right. From a stewards-of-the-earth point of view and that could be enough. But what about from a supply-and-demand point of view? Do we view recycling as just another waste stream or source of material?

If I were to ask you where “recycling” falls in an item’s lifespan, where would you put it? For most of us, I bet we’d put it right at the end. It would just replace “toss it in the garbage” in the order of events. But I’m starting to think it’s time we put it where it belongs. I think it’s time we START with recycling.

  • Waste or Source Material

How Do We View Recycling?

I recently read an article on resource-recycle.com from their October 2020 publication. The general topic was scrap paper and plastic markets and the forces that drive them. But one statement stood out to me. Stephanie Baker of KW Plastics said, in regards to the impact of COVID-19 on the recycling world, “I think it shifted the conversation from talking about recycling as part of the waste industry to talking about it as part of the manufacturing industry.”

She’s absolutely right. For decades we, as consumers, have been bombarded with marketing campaigns telling us that our food cartons are made from “recycled materials.” We hear about building materials made from recycled plastic bottles. We use wrapping paper made with “100% Recycled Paper.” We know recycling has an impact because we see it day in and day out. But have we ever put it at the top of the list? Have we ever started with recycling as the first step the timeline?

Why Recycling Matters

Using recycled materials improves the health of our planet because it keeps items out of landfills. However, once again that is only looking at the end result of a product. Products made with recycled materials are protecting the planet from the start. By reducing the amount of virgin resources being mined and processed at the beginning of the manufacturing process, recycled materials reduce greenhouse omissions, decrease deforestation and save ecosystems. Recycled materials are twice as beneficial because they reduce damage up front and eliminate damage at the end.

The benefits recycling has on the world are felt locally and internationally. Increases in local recycling can mean an increase in local manufacturing. It relieves some of the reliance on international relations and builds strong places where we live and work. Recycling creates jobs, improves economies and protects communities. It saves us money on transportation, keeps our air cleaner by reducing greenhouse emissions and other pollution and slows the growth of landfills and garbage dumps. It also reduces the amount of waste sent to foreign countries.

What Materials Matter?

We all think about plastic, paper and glass. Bottles, jugs, cartons and more are items we use every day made from those commonly recycled products. Because of how common they are we've been learning about them for decades. However, in this age of technology, e-waste and the components that go along with our digital world require more attention than ever. Devices, like computers and TVs, contain toxic materials that must be kept out of landfills. Electronics also use plastic components, metals, and minerals. All of which can be recycled or reused to make new devices. Electronic waste is a growing problem that requires a modern solution. We need to take electronics that have reached their end of life and reuse the base materials. E-waste recycling matters at the end of life and at the start of it.

Recycling isn’t just waste disposal. Recycling is waste prevention.

Image by ejaugsburg from Pixabay 

Why Social Responsibility of Business and Recycling are important?

Social Responsibility and Recycling

What is Social Responsibility of Business?

Social Responsibility is the duty of individuals and companies to act in the best interests of their environment and society as a whole.

If you’re a business owner, CEO, manager or president of a company I’m sure you’ve heard the importance of social responsibility of a business. Customers, consumers, and shareholders expect the companies they purchase from and whose services they use to increase profits.  But they expect it to be done in a way that respects employees, communities and the environment.

With the internet, a cellphone or keyboard away it’s easier than ever for consumers to research the ethics and accountability of the brands they support. Dozens of websites exist with brief synopses of companies using questionable procedures. Businesses of all sizes are expected to pay their taxes, protect their environment, and support animal and human rights. Boycotts, strikes, and protests are ways society keeps corporations and organizations accountable for their business practices. It would be wise to adhere to what the social responsibility of business is.

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Economic Benefits to Social Responsibility of business

However, appeasing customers isn’t the only reason businesses need to focus on social responsibility. They also do it because social responsibility of business provides economic stability and dependability. When companies of all sizes are expected to uphold the same standards then they all find themselves playing by the same rules. Which means we all have a chance to grow. It gives everyone dependable market conditions to estimate costs and profits. And this allows for corporate competition, gives consumers options and supports a more equal playing field.

The importance of Social Responsibility of Business and Recycling

It is known that business recycling is an essential component for waste management plan as recycling helps to reduce the amount of e-waste from landing in landfills. It also helps in conserving the resources and minimize what impact e-waste makes. Businesses and companies have the unique responsibility to reduce the amount of waste and to recycle as much possible. And by doing so, they can lessen their carbon footprint. By doing the deed companies can save money.

One way business can advocate recycling is by placing recycling bins in their workplace. Furthermore, they can recycle their outdated hardware by using a certified recycler. We gladly will take your obsolete IT assets and disposes them. We feel that it is better to lead by an example. Our recycling programs are perfect for you if you want to get rid of e-waste fast.

Conclusion

When it comes to supporting workers’ rights and protecting the environment no one is exempt from doing their part. All businesses have to ensure safe working conditions for their employees. We all have to allow for federal holidays or pay additional holiday wages if we need to stay open. Large businesses pay for garbage disposal and so do small ones, just on a much different scale. We all pay business insurance, workers’ comp and unemployment benefits.

And companies of every size, especially in this age of technology, use electronics to manage, run and grow their businesses. Meaning they all have to find the best way to responsibly recycle them.

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Corporate Responsibility to Recycle

Electronic waste is growing year after year. Common e-waste items include computers, monitors, TVs, and keyboards. But it’s important to understand that while the technical definition of e-waste is “waste consisting of discarded electronic products,” there are a dozen items that also need proper recycling. Things such as batteries, ballasts, thermometers, and more. A battery is not considered “e-waste”, but your laptop (which is) wouldn’t function without it. A fluorescent lightbulb, isn’t e-waste, but it does contain harmful mercury powder and runs on electricity. Meaning the wires and ballast used to power it should be properly recycled. Conversely, an LED lightbulb contains a circuit board, and therefore is considered e-waste.

Phones, Square© credit card readers, barcode scanners and computers; these are common pieces of business equipment. And when it’s time for your business to upgrade or replace them, it’s crucial that you are prepared to dispose of those items responsibly. Legal expectations, as well as consumer expectations, exist for a reason. Without social responsibility the health of our planet, the safety of our workers and the strength of our economy would suffer.

Better Recycling Through Better Education

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Kindergarten. Mrs Erickson's class.  I will never forget that day.  We got colored t-shirts in blue and red and green and yellow. They were covered in white outlines of trees and flowers.  

For me, that was 26 years ago.  Mrs. Erickson was also my sixth grade teacher. And my speech coach. And the director of the musicals I participated in. Teachers are like that; they are involved in our lives in so many ways outside of the classroom. Not only that, but they are with us through the most formative years of our lives.  And so are some of those lifelong lessons. Reduce-Reuse-Recycle.

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Household recycling has evolved drastically over the last twenty six years. Nearly every driveway has two bins at the end of the driveway each week, not only one marked "TRASH." But it makes me wonder, has recycling education kept up with recycling expectations?

Paper, plastic and pop cans were the most discussed recycling items in Mrs. Erickson's Kindergarten class. I'd go so far as to say that my generation doesn't think twice about recycling those three items, we just do it.  But what about the new stuff?  Do we think twice before throwing away our dead curling iron or the random out of date gaming console in our basement? Do students today think of recycling only in terms of the worksheets they fill out in math class or do they also consider how to recycle the Chromebooks provided by their school and the charging cable and battery used to power it?

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Better recycling comes with better education. One day twenty six years ago started a lifelong understanding of the importance of recycling my pop bottles and milk cartons.  Let's pass that on to the next generation.  Day in and day out our students are using technology that is so commonplace they don't think twice about it.  Let's make sure they don't think twice about how to recycle it either.  Reach out to your local e-waste recycler (or me-video calls make education so much more accessible!) Give your students a tour of a recycling center. Show them the materials that make up their cellphone and computer. Make recycling as commonplace as the technology they hold in their hand.  

If there is one thing I took away from that recycling unit twenty six years ago...it's never too early to start. 

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