Electronic recycling is a way of transforming electronic waste into useful new products. The new products are put in place of those that will be disposed of in landfills. By reducing the amount of non-recycled electronic devices, electronics recyclers contribute to the effort toward environmental greening. Recyclers are also required by law to provide public information about the amount of electronic waste they generate and how they contribute to green living. Some states also require that manufacturers disclose how much paper and other components they generate.
The process of electronic recycling starts with the removal of the electronic components. Then, the materials used in manufacturing the electronic components are cleaned and sorted, tested, and remade into new electronic items. In this case, the products are not simply recycled but new products are manufactured out of them. The resulting product is then crushed and compacted, and the materials used to manufacture it are taken to an automated sorting facility. The product is washed, and any excess glue or tape is removed. The product is then left to dry in a heat-sealed room until it is ready for reuse.
Materials used in the manufacturing of electronic products have traditionally comprised most of the material used in the creation of new electronic products. This means that electronic recycling helps to save both natural resources and money. In fact, some studies have shown that there are direct and indirect costs associated with disposing of electronic waste through traditional landfills and incinerators. However, when electronic products are recycled, the materials used do not end up on the earth, therefore, these costs are eliminated.
Efficient electronics recycling processes allow users to save both money and natural resources while minimizing their impact on the environment. For instance, reusable polymer coatings reduce the need for processing hazardous materials. In addition, these materials used in the manufacture of electronics are made from renewable resources, meaning that they are plant-based or animal-based (in the case of plastic resins and plastics) and they contain no dangerous chemicals. Additionally, many toxic materials are used in the manufacturing of non-biodegradable materials, including batteries of all types, mercury, cadmium, chromium, and mercury.
It is important for electronic users to take their electronic products to one of the many certified electronics recyclers to ensure that these materials are properly recycled. The certified recyclers work with qualified technicians who are trained in hazardous materials and electronics recycling. The technicians carefully examine the products, removing any components that may be hazardous, and testing the condition of the metals, plastics, and other components. Once the testing is complete, the recyclers will contact the responsible parties and make arrangements for them to pick up the materials. The materials will be transported to facilities where they can be properly disposed of. The entire process of electronics recycling works together to create a sustainable electronics management plan.
This recyclable system makes it easier for everyone to help reduce the amount of waste going to landfills and contributes to efforts toward environmental responsibility. This electronic products recycling initiative is a part of many programs initiated by companies such as Nintendo, Cisco, and others. These companies have long been committed to helping the environment and are constantly researching ways to make their business even greener. By using this type of intelligent technology in combination with other efforts, they are pioneering new ways in which to deal with waste and toxic chemicals in electronic products.
This post was written by Steven Elia Co-Founder and Recycling Director at eCycle Florida. eCycle Florida is a R2 Certified electronics recycling company in the state of Florida. Our processes and procedures are dedicated to the proper destruction and recycling of your electronics. eCycle Florida is your go-to for Pinellas County electronics recycling.