Skip to Content

How to Recycle Old Electronic Devices – the Right Way

Greeley Tenant Putting Old Electric Devices in a Recycling BinToday’s connected world depends on various tech devices to improve life and make it more convenient. Laptops, tablets, TVs, and smartphones are all important to modern living. But what happens to these devices when they wear out, break down, or get replaced? It’s possible, in certain circumstances, to trade in your old device for a new one. Of course, there are times when it just isn’t possible, and then knowing how to recycle your old electronics correctly is a good advantage. Here are some tips on how to do it responsibly:

Do some research

Electronic waste is an enormous problem that grows worse every day. One United Nations study reported that 53.6 million tons of e-waste were discarded in 2019, and only 17.4% were disposed of properly.

Make sure you are part of the solution, not adding to the problem, with the following information and advice.

Recycle

One of the first things to do when you’re ready to get rid of old electronic devices is to find out if you can recycle them locally in Greeley. Many recycling centers and e-waste collection sites around the country will take your old devices and recycle them properly. You can also check with your local municipality to see if they have any special programs or collection days for electronic waste.

Donate

If your old devices are still in good working condition, you may consider donating them to a local school or non-profit organization. Many of these organizations can use your old laptops, tablets, and phones. Some of the best-known donation programs available include:

  • Dell Reconnect. Dell has partnered with Goodwill to offer a free recycling program for any brand of computer equipment. You can take your used devices to any participating Goodwill location.
  • Computers for Classrooms. This national organization provides refurbished computers and other technology to schools and educational programs around the U.S.
  • World Computer Exchange. This non-profit ships donated computers to developing countries, where they are used in schools and community centers.

Contact the Manufacturer

In specific situations, there’s a chance that you can return your old device to the manufacturer. Lots of manufacturers and even retailers have programs for recycling or discarding old devices. For instance, Apple has a recycling program that will take any Apple device and many non-Apple devices. Other options include:

  • Amazon. The behemoth online retailer has a trade-in program where you can get Amazon gift cards in exchange for your old devices.
  • Best Buy. The electronics retailer has a range of recycling options and an e-waste recycling program for many types of electronics.
  • Sprint’s Buyback program. This cell phone company will give you credit towards a new phone when you trade in your old one, no matter who your previous carrier

Prepare your device

If you’ve finally settled on a place for your electronic devices, it’s important to guarantee you wipe your device of all personal data before handing it over. This is especially important for laptops, computers, and phones.

There are a few ways you can do this:

  • For Computers: Use disk-wiping software like DBAN to erase your hard drive. You can download the program for free and burn it to a blank disc. Once you have done this, boot your computer from the DBAN disc and follow the instructions.
  • For Apple Devices: Sign in to iCloud.com, click on Settings, then select Restore Devices. This will erase all the data on your device and restore it to factory settings.
  • For Android Devices: Go to Settings, then System, Advanced, and reset options. Select Erase all data (factory reset).
  • For Other Devices: Check the user manual or the manufacturer’s website for specific instructions on how to wipe your device clean.

Properly dispose of your old electronics

After you have wiped your device physically clean and removed all personal data, you are ready to properly dispose of your old electronics. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and disconnect all batteries and power cords before recycling. This will help ward off any accidents that could ensue in the course of the recycling process.

To reduce and prevent electronic waste in the future, we all must do our part. By recycling our old devices properly, we can help keep harmful toxins and chemicals out of the environment. And by donating or reselling our old devices, we can help others in need while keeping these devices out of the landfill.

 

Electronic devices aren’t the only things that need the occasional upgrade. If you want to upgrade to a new rental home, talk to one of our Greeley property managers! We have an inventory of quality rental listings that you can browse online.

We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.

The Neighborly Done Right Promise

The Neighborly Done Right Promise ® delivered by Real Property Management, a proud Neighborly company

When it comes to finding the right property manager for your investment property, you want to know that they stand behind their work and get the job done right – the first time. At Real Property Management we have the expertise, technology, and systems to manage your property the right way. We work hard to optimize your return on investment while preserving your asset and giving you peace of mind. Our highly trained and skilled team works hard so you can be sure your property's management will be Done Right.

Canada excluded. Services performed by independently owned and operated franchises.

See Full Details