We often think of recycling cardboard boxes or plastic bottles when it comes to recycling. But what about electronics? “Electronic recycling” is searched online 700 times per month, indicating a significant gap in recycling knowledge. The amount of recyclable waste ending up in landfill can be reduced by confusion about how to recycle certain materials. It can be difficult to identify the components of electronics due to their complex internal structure. Metal is one of the most commonly recyclable materials in electronics. This is evident by the frequency with which “What materials are used to make electronics?” is searched online.
We outline the key reasons why electronics recycling is important. Businesses must follow certain regulations when disposing old electronics.
What Metals Are Inside Electronics?
Electronics can be made from a variety of materials, including plastics, chemicals and raw materials. Copper, lithium, silver, gold and nickel are all metals. Electronics are made up of metals that have a variety functions. They can be used to increase durability, improve functionality, and make it easier to clean. There are some electronics that contain more metal than others, which can have a negative impact on their “recyclability”. Laptops, for example, are made up of about 50% metal making them great candidates for recycling. Large amounts of metal are found in parts like circuit boards and copper wiring. Are you unsure about the metals in your electronic devices?
Why Recycle Electronics?
Recycling Electronics is easier than ever
Electronics should not be disposed of with household waste. There are many options available for people who want to recycle electronic items. Electronic items that can be recycled include toys, computers, and leisure equipment. First, customers can dispose of unwanted electricals at a number of e-recycling companies that do not create toxic landfill waste. Local recycling programs often offer drop-off or collection points for electrical items. These are just a few of the more well-known options. Many manufacturers offer take back programs that allow customers to return old devices if they are looking for a replacement.
Limit Hazards
There are a number of dangerous substances in electrical and electronic products that can cause long-term damage to the environment, wildlife and human health. Arsenic and lead are among the hazardous substances found in electrical components. They can all be dangerous if disposed of unwisely. Recycling your electronic devices can reduce the amount of harmful substances in our environment, and lead to other negative effects.
Data Dismantled Effectively
Recycling electronics offers many data protection benefits, in addition to its environmental benefits. Specialist providers often offer electronic recycling services that include an initial data stripping step. This ensures that confidential data is removed from the device before it can be recycled. Your personal information and documents could be at risk if data is not removed effectively from a device. Some electrical recycling solutions not only effectively dispose of your waste but also keep you safe.
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They’re full of Metals!
Electronics can also contain rare metals in their structure, as well as the metals already mentioned. Rare metals are often more valuable and therefore will be sought after by recycling companies looking to make new products. The entire composite metal of an electric device can be melted down and used in other manufacturing processes or new devices. This reduces the amount waste that goes to landfill.
What Regulations Should You Use for Recycling Electronics
There are specific protocols that must be followed for recycling electronic products. The recycling of electronic and electrical waste (WEEE), is a niche area in the waste and recycling industry. The majority of electrical products have a plug or a battery. WEEE regulations divide electrical products into different categories. Each category has a preferred recycling protocol. There are three main categories: large household appliances, electrical and electronic tools, and lighting equipment.
Dumpster rental Orlando can help you determine what your business wants to recycle. You can rest assured that your disposal procedures comply with all applicable legislation. You can also check out affordable dumpster rental Orlando for more information.