It’s the new Year and you’ve made yourself resolutions to practice hopefully to be a better person. A way to do this is to reduce the amount of electronics you may have around the house. Here are ways to be systematic in reducing electronic waste and programs of where you can drop them off.
Reduce Your E-Waste and Start Fresh
It’s a new year, and with it comes resolutions to be a better, more organized, and mindful version of yourself. One way to positively impact the planet and your living space is by tackling the growing pile of unused electronics sitting in your home. From outdated gadgets to old charging cables, reducing electronic waste (e-waste) can be a systematic, fulfilling practice that benefits both you and the environment. Here's how to do it and where to take those electronics for proper disposal.
Steps to Systematically Reduce Your E-Waste
Take Inventory of Your Electronics
Start by gathering all unused electronics into one place. This includes:
• Worn-out headphones or earbuds.
• Broken cords, chargers, and adapters.
• Appliances like toasters or coffee makers no longer in use.
Pro Tip: Categorize them into three piles: Working but Unused, Broken, and Uncertain Condition to make the next steps easier.
Repurpose What You Can
Before deciding to dispose of electronics, consider ways to repurpose them:
• Turn an old smartphone into a dedicated music player, e-book reader, or security camera.
• Use outdated laptops for kids’ learning activities or donate them if still functional.
• Upcycle cords and adapters for craft or organization projects.
A Note on Data Security
Before recycling, reselling, or donating, ensure your data is wiped from all devices. Reset smartphones, laptops, and tablets to factory settings, and consider using data-erasure software for hard drives. For items that are truly at the end of their lifespan, proper recycling is crucial. Tossing electronics in the trash is hazardous, as they often contain toxic materials like lead or mercury.
Resell or Donate Functional Electronics
Functional electronics that you no longer need can find new homes. Platforms like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace are great for reselling gadgets. Alternatively, donate devices to organizations like and there’s more to the list, scroll down to view.
• Goodwill or Salvation Army – Many accept electronics in working condition.
• Computers with Causes – Refurbishes and donates computers to individuals or schools in need.
• Call2Recycle – Offers drop-off locations for cell phones and rechargeable batteries.
E-Waste Drop-Off Programs and Locations
Here are some nationwide programs and resources to help you responsibly dispose of your e-waste:
Best Buy Recycling Program
Best Buy accepts a wide range of electronics, from TVs to cables, and recycles them for free or for a small fee depending on the item. They also offer a trade-in program for gift cards if your items still have value.
Staples Free Tech Recycling
Staples accepts office electronics (like printers, computers, and phones) for free recycling, even if you didn’t buy the item from them.
Local Government E-Waste Drop-Off Events
Many cities organize e-waste collection events where you can drop off electronics for free. Check your local municipality’s website for schedules.
Earth911 Recycling Locator
Visit Earth911.com and enter your ZIP code to find nearby e-waste drop-off sites.
Manufacturer Programs
Apple: Trade in old Apple devices for store credit or free recycling.
Samsung: Offers drop-off bins and mail-in recycling for Samsung products.
Dell Reconnect: A partnership with Goodwill allows you to drop off Dell products for recycling.
Charity-Based Recycling
World Computer Exchange: Donate old computers to help support youth in developing countries.
Recycle My Cell (Canada and US): Accepts old mobile phones for donation or recycling.
We hope you found this helpful in recycling your electronics.
