Sunday, January 26, 2014

Tips On Proper Consumer Electronics Disposal In Austin

By Judy Sullivan


Many electric gadgets have become obsolete due to rapid technological advancements. This poses a problem to the environment especially when these gadgets end up in landfills. It is therefore essential for the residents of Austin to adopt environmentally friendly measures for disposal of electronic waste. Recycling is one the things that can contribute to safe electronics disposal in Austin.

Electric equipment that is recycled serves a new purpose. This equipment can also be updated or repaired to lengthen its lifespan. Residents of Austin should abide by the rules and regulations that govern the management, disposal and recycling of electronic waste.

Approved waste recyclers ensure that electronic waste does not enter landfills, where it can cause contamination and pollution. Old electric equipment like computers, cell phones, video and audio players and televisions sets among others contain hazardous elements such as lead, copper and gold which pose a threat to humans and wildlife if they get into natural resources like air and water. They therefore need to be disposed of safely with the assistance of professionally trained exerts.

Consumers can turn over their obsolete gadgets to recyclers in various ways. They can take them to an electric equipment repair shop, an electronic waste drop off center, an electric equipment manufacturer, special recycling events and charities among others. It is wise to recycle electronics. When their components are reused, pollution is reduced. Furthermore, reusing such components makes it unnecessary to mine for metals that are used to make electric equipment.

Computers and their components comprise approximately sixty percent by weight of all the recycled electric products. As recyclers process electronic materials, they separate the devices into their individual elements. They save the reusable pieces and break down those that cannot be reused. The recycling process involves separating components made from metals, glass and plastic from each other.

Reputable recyclers are members of the R2 program, which establishes guidelines that accredited recycling firms should follow. This program is designed to showcase that the firms are committed to utilizing responsible recycling practices. It focuses on various issues including public health, worker safety, environmental practices and consumer data security.

The recycling value of metals like steel and aluminum is high since these metals can be reused for several purposes including building metallic equipment and spare parts. The refurbishment or recycling of electric equipment significantly limits the release of toxic substances into the ecosystem. Refurbished products are usually sold at lower prices than new products and this allows consumers to save money.

The next time you want to throw away obsolete gadgets, make sure that you contact an electric waste recycler. The potential for mercury, cadmium and polychlorinated biphenyls leaching in the soil and contaminating food is high. Exposure to these products can cause cancer and it is therefore essential for everyone to use the right methods of electronics disposal in Austin. When electric waste is handled and sorted in the right way, it becomes an important source of secondary raw materials.




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