Give Back to the Earth and the Community
Hopefully you know that old and broken technology like monitors, cell phones, batteries, computers, printers, and more, cannot be put out with your curbside recycling. Moreover, you shouldn’t just throw electronic waste out with this week’s trash. Proper electronic recycling, or e-cycling, prevents harmful contaminants from seeping into our environment. Sometimes electronics recycling is easier said than done, but luckily we have several options for ways to safely and responsibly recycle electronics.
E-Cycling
What is E-Cycling?
E-cycling means reusing or recycling electronic equipment or components for the purpose of reducing waste and pollution. Sounds good to us! And, many cities and municipalities worldwide mandate that old electronic devices must be e-cycled. Additionally, Pennsylvania Department Of Environmental Protection cites that many types of e-waste contain harmful materials such as lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, and other toxic components. E-cycling is vital in order to prevent harmful materials from contaminating our air, water, and land. Think green.
Business E-Cycling Services
When you purchase a new washing machine, more often than not, your broken washer is hauled as a courtesy as part of your delivery services. But, what about your business technology? Does your IT firm offer end-of-life technology and digital device haul-away? Make sure to partner with companies like FSA Consulting to make sure that your computer towers, monitors, laptops, desktops, phones, and printers are properly recycled.
Options for Giving Back to the Community
Donate to an Organization
You may have upgraded to the latest iPhone or MacBook, but it doesn’t mean that your previous device has reached end-of-life. (No judgment here!) However, many local organizations can use or sell your old items. Here are a few in the Pittsburgh region. If you are outside of the area, make sure to research resources specific to your area.
- Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh (WC&S) accepts phone donations which they send to the Shelter Alliance Program. After recycling, WC&S receives a donation, which benefits their domestic abuse programs.
- Computer Reach brings Internet access and digital literacy training to Wilkinsburg residents. They refurbish computers and laptops and resell them at affordable prices. Likewise, they accept donations of other electronic devices, so make sure to check out their website or give them a call for full details.
- Participating locations of Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania accept computer donations through a partnership with Dell Reconnect. Simply pack up your old computer and drop it off at a participating Goodwill store. Don’t forget your receipt — donations to Goodwill are tax-deductible.
But, Wait, There’s More
Our friends at the Pittsburgh Center for Creative Reuse may not take everything, but they have compiled additional resources for e-cycling and electronic donations.
Do you find yourself with something bigger, older, or not on the standard list of electronics? The Pennsylvania Resources Council commits to the safe, ethical, and responsible recycling outlet of electronic waste. Check out some of their 2023 upcoming hard-to-recycle events.
Volunteer
Don’t have old phones, computers, or other devices waiting to be recycled? (We’re jealous.) If that’s the case, and you want to give back to the earth and the community, there are volunteer opportunities available with PRC at their collection events. You will be provided with the proper safety gear and perhaps even get that glowy feeling from helping out!
April is Earth Month, but Green Light Wireless is committed to being a responsible steward of the Earth every month. Think local and contact us today to experience fast and reliable business and home Internet service.