E-Waste Recycling: Getting Kids to Help Solve the Problem

E-Waste Recycling: Getting Kids to Help Solve the Problem

Today’s families have an average of 24 electronic gadgets. From iPads and iPhones to Android tablets and hand-held video game devices, electronics are ingrained in most households because they are used for everything from communication to entertainment.

Since many of these devices are used by the family’s younger members, it is important to educate children about the facts on e-waste recycling so they can become advocates for change as they grow. This guide will help you introduce the topic of e-waste to your children so they can become more informed and more responsible consumers when they enter adulthood.

First, What is E-Waste Recycling?

E-waste recycling is the practice of breaking down, or “de-manufacturing,” an electronic product. Since almost every electronic device contains some degree of toxic materials and metals, it is important to remove them from the disposal chain so they do not wind up in our landfills where they can enter our water or food supply.

When proper e-waste handling is performed, an electronic device is broken down into its individual parts with the raw materials separated from the disposable materials. The recycling company then sends certain materials to downstream partners where they can be recycled and/or reused in other products while the non-toxic materials are disposed of in a safe and environmentally-responsible manner.

H2 What Should Be Done With Old Electronics?

Electronic devices are often replaced well before the old one stops working. So, one of the best ways to practice e-waste recycling is to donate your old devices, pass them on for reuse, or sell them online. If you can’t find someone to purchase or take your older device, then it should be recycled.

Electronic devices should never be thrown away with the regular garbage! If your community has a recycling center or weekly recycling services, then you should use those services to dispose of your electronics. If your community doesn’t offer recycling services, then you can take your devices to your local Staples or Best Buy store. Or, you can look for a local provider of e-waste recycling and disposal online or in your telephone directory. If you’re going with a local e-waste provider, make sure they are a certified e-Steward recycler as this ensures that the company follows a strict set of mandates.

Kids and E-Waste: What They Can Do to Help

Kids are inventive by default and they like to help out important causes. As a result, one of the best things kids can do to help with e-waste is to hold a cell phone recycling drive and fundraiser at their school. This provides the community with an easy and eco-responsible way of getting rid of their old cell phones and helps the kids see their work in action as the cell phones start piling up.

Another great way to get kids excited about eco-responsible electronic ownership is to encourage them to try and fix a device when it stops working. The website IFixIt.com has hundreds of easy to follow tutorials that can guide you and your child as you bring a broken device back to life.

Looking for a Reputable E-Waste Recycler? Call Liquid Technology Today!

If you operate a business and you’re looking for bulk e-waste recycling services, Liquid Technology can help. We are a certified e-Steward recycler and we offer a suite of IT asset management services for solving a host of asset dilemmas. Call us today at 1-800-797-5478 to learn more about our e-waste disposal and recycling services or to schedule fast and fair liquidation services.