Electronics have become of our lives. We have more than 20 gadgets in our house. As we move towards new devices, we have to do something about the old ones. Recycling is the only viable option for the proper disposal of these electronic devices. So, what is the process of electronics recycling? It might seem complicated which it is not. Just to give you a heads-up. We only recycle 15 % of electronics. 45 % of electronic waste goes to landfills and the rest 40% is sent to countries like Ghana. This article will teach you what the process of electronic recycling is and how you can recycle your electronics responsibly.
What is Electronic Waste?
Electronic waste is the by-product of electronics that has run its course. A normal person can not amount what is electronic waste. The only way to distinguish electronic waste is a device having a circuit board. The most common electronic waste is cell phones, televisions, computers, and appliances. Electronic waste is the fastest-growing trash in the world. We are the biggest contributor to electronic waste. Reclamation helps reuse materials than mining for new ones. The recycling process helps us protect the environment and lessen greenhouse gases.
What is inside electronics?
Almost all electronic devices contain toxic chemicals and precious metals. Recycling is the only process that helps extract precious metals while disposing of toxic chemicals. If thrown in the trash these electronics go to a landfill. These toxic chemicals will most likely seep and contaminate the soil.
Why is Recycle Technologies the better contender?
To avoid this from happening we suggest you contact your local recycling service to properly dispose of electronics. If your local recycling is unresponsive then you may call us instead. We provide affordable recycling solutions and have state-of-the-art facilities in New Berlin, Waukesha, and Blaine, Minnesota. Our mail-in program is perfect for out-of-state residents.
Here is a step-by-step process of electronic recycling
As electronics house a variety of precious metals, recycling electronic waste requires several steps to recover these resources. This helps us rely less on natural resources. The reclaimed resources are of much more fine quality than what we mined in the first place. The process of electronic recycling requires both manpower and machinery during this process. Machinery helps us to recover these precious metals at the same time manpower helps us to work efficiently and safely.
Collection and Transport
The first step to properly dispose of electronic waste involves the collection of the waste. If for some reason your local sanitation authority is not accepting your trash. Your best bet will be to contact private recyclers. Some recyclers might pick up your unwanted electronics. Most recyclers use load bars to properly secure electronics for safe travel to the facility.
Sorting
The next process of electronic recycling involves the sorting of electronics. As your electronics reach our state-of-the-art facility. Our team will start to sort the electronic waste. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Evaluation and Separation
After the sorting process completes our team will do a final check to ascertain the status of electronic devices. If they can’t be fixed or repaired then these devices are most likely sent to our recycling machines. The dismantling of devices into small pieces helps us to easily reclaim precious materials such as aluminum, copper, and plastic. Using magnets, we separate steel and iron fragments from the electronic waste. Using water treatment, we separate plastic and glass fragments. Once all raw materials are properly separated. They are sold to companies and manufacturers to make new electronic devices. This action helps us rely less on virgin resources.
Refinement and Purification
After the electronics are properly broken down, the electronic waste is further evaluated. If it is not up to the mark, we refine it more to enhance its quality. It all depends on the recycling facility to which the electronics are sent. Many recyclers rely on chemical treatment to extract precious metals. These rare earth elements cause a great hazard to life and the environment.
Resale
After all, electronics are broken down to their base model, these elements are either recycled or prepped to sell to the manufacturer that requires them for new devices. The process of electronic recycling is as simple as it appears. In this whole process, EPA guidelines are strictly followed, and we make sure the safety of our staff remains intact.
Recycle with Recycle Technologies
Now that you know how electronic recycling works, it is time to do your thing and send in your unwanted electronics for proper disposal. Recycle Technologies is a Top-tier Midwest Recycler that caters to the residents of both Wisconsin and Minnesota. It has two state-of-the-art facilities in Blaine Minnesota and New Berlin Waukesha.
Our mail-in program helps consumers who can’t reach our facility to send their electronics using FedEx. We ensure all the recycling of electronics efficiently. We also provide data destruction for all of our customers. You can request a quote or call to see how easy it is for you to dispose of your electronics.