Our desire to have the most up-to-date phones and televisions in our houses has increased while technology has advanced. They’re rapidly changing in size and shape, and trying to stay up with the trends is like an addiction. However, in today’s technology-driven world, a significant increase in the number of gadgets that are simply discarded as they are upgraded to newer ones is occurring.
When it comes to properly recycling these devices and working hard to prevent as many of them from ending up in landfill as possible, this has proven to be a monumental task, but one that big corporations are now fighting to tackle.
Fletchers Waste Management, a waste management and Skip Hire Sheffield company, has put together some suggestions to assist you in safely discarding and recycling your old electrical items.
Is old technology dangerous?
Yes, to put it plainly. The materials begin to break down if electronic waste is not properly recycled or disposed of wrongly. Toxic heavy metals are discharged into the atmosphere as a result of this. If the item isn’t recycled, it will most likely wind up in a landfill or on the street as a fly-tipped item. Metals like lead and arsenic, on the other hand, have a considerably higher probability of leaching into the soil.
These dangerous metals are swept up into the soil when it rains. The soil and neighbouring vegetation start to absorb the poisons as it flows down with the rain. This is known as leaching, and it pollutes our food and water with toxins.
These hazardous metals, like any other sort of pollution, pose a significant risk to public health, and those who inadvertently consume them are also at risk of developing health problems for several years if they are unaware and go untreated.
What is the best way to dispose of electronic waste?
Because of the dangerous toxins listed above, it is now more vital than ever to help get rid of our electronic products responsibly. Businesses, in particular, will have a legal need to follow all government regulations when it comes to producing and disposing of electrical waste.
Gifting your unwanted stuff to others is the finest place to start when it comes to getting rid of them. It’s a terrific method to reuse and recycle old phones, computers, and other devices by giving them to friends, family, neighbours, or a charity. If you are unable to do so, go to your local council’s website to find your closest recycling centre, which takes electrical debris.
It’s usually painful to say goodbye to technology and devices you used to enjoy but think about the last time you used it properly. Can’t recall? Then it’s time to recognise that you don’t require it any longer!
If you’re unsure whether an electrical item can be recycled, look for a plug, battery, or cable. If that’s the case, you can definitely recycle it.
