Spring Cleaning: Recycling Electronics in York Region
Spring is finally here, and that means spring cleaning! While we’re busy opening the windows and cleaning out drawers, we usually find old, abandoned electronics. Maybe they don’t work anymore, or maybe they do but we’ve replaced them with the newer model. Whatever you may find, here are my tips for recycling electronics responsibly in York Region.
Recycling Cell Phones
Cell phones are very special. Why? Did you know there are a ton of precious metals inside our cell phones? From gold, silver, copper and palladium, NEVER throw away your old cellphones! Did you know you can responsibly recycle your old cell phone at any cell phone provider? If you’re in Newmarket, visit the Upper Canada Mall and have your pick of the many retailers there. A quick and easy way to keep waste out of our landfills.
Recycling Computers & Laptops
If you can use a computer or laptop for 5-10 years, you’ve earned a great ROI. But most people end up getting new computers before 5 years. Did you know that with proper maintenance and a few upgrades you can extend the life of your computer?
I worked in the IT industry for 3 years and managed many asset upgrades. If you buy a quality machine to begin with, you can upgrade the Hard Drive (HDD or SSD) for more storage, the RAM for faster processing and even the Operating System once yours becomes obsolete.
If you are ready to recycle your machine, first see if there are any local not for profits that would benefit from the device. Just because it’s not efficient for you anymore doesn’t mean it’s not perfect for someone else!
Here are Some Recycling Options for Your E-Waste:
The Maple Lion’s Club E-Waste Program
We worked with this organization when I was in the IT industry. If you’re in the Vaughan, ON area, it’s a great solution! Click here for more information.
Reboot Canada
This Canadian-registered charity in Toronto, ON was established in 1995. Since then they have distributed over 200,000 pieces of equipment to non-profit organizations, charities and individuals in Canada, supporting their communities. You can learn more here.
Computers for Success Canada
A Canada-wide initiative; they refurbish old electronics and redistribute to schools, charities, not-for-profit organizations and low-income learners across Ontario. For more information about their Ontario program, click here.
The best thing about these organizations is that they are responsibly recycling electronics and any equipment that cannot be refurbished or reused. It’s a win-win for our communities, our economy and our environment!
How are you going green this spring?
I’d love to hear from you. You can get in touch by telephone or email, or connect through Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram. You can also sign up for our exclusive monthly newsletter for more great tips on social media marketing, SEO and websites!
Wishing you all a green spring!
Deanna
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