The holiday season is in full swing and that often means presents. Many things on the wish list are electronic; phones, games, printers, music players and battery operated gadgets. Technology for these devices and appliances is constantly evolving and improving. So, how do you allow yourself and loved ones to enjoy new tech gear while reducing e-waste and battery waste or disposing of it responsibly?
A few tips to reduce, reuse and recycle will keep all your old electronics and batteries out of the landfill and onto better use.
Reuse
After reduce, reusing is always the best zero waste solution, pass along what still has life in it. Donate working cell phones to women who are victims of domestic violence through Verizon Wireless’ Hopeline program. They take working cell phones of all types. Bring your working electronics to a thrift or reuse store, you might even earn a few bucks. If your electronics still work, chances are someone else could use them.
Recycle
If you can’t reuse, recycle. Televisions, computers and computer accessories can be recycled at statewide e-waste collection locations. Electronics of any kind, including household appliances can be recycled at the Additional Recyclables Collection Center (ARCC) on 540 North Main St. Remember, televisions, computers and computer accessories are banned from the landfill in Vermont.
Finally, if your device is battery operated, buy rechargeable batteries that can be reused. Most batteries can be recycled easily throughout Vermont. Put tape over the positive contact on all batteries or bag batteries in clear plastic bags.
Look around our website to learn about other ways to recycle or reduce your waste this holiday season. If you find yourself replacing an electronic device, do not throw the old one in the trash; send it on for reuse or take it to a recycling drop-off location.
A few tips to reduce, reuse and recycle will keep all your old electronics and batteries out of the landfill and onto better use.
Reuse
After reduce, reusing is always the best zero waste solution, pass along what still has life in it. Donate working cell phones to women who are victims of domestic violence through Verizon Wireless’ Hopeline program. They take working cell phones of all types. Bring your working electronics to a thrift or reuse store, you might even earn a few bucks. If your electronics still work, chances are someone else could use them.
Recycle
If you can’t reuse, recycle. Televisions, computers and computer accessories can be recycled at statewide e-waste collection locations. Electronics of any kind, including household appliances can be recycled at the Additional Recyclables Collection Center (ARCC) on 540 North Main St. Remember, televisions, computers and computer accessories are banned from the landfill in Vermont.
Finally, if your device is battery operated, buy rechargeable batteries that can be reused. Most batteries can be recycled easily throughout Vermont. Put tape over the positive contact on all batteries or bag batteries in clear plastic bags.
Look around our website to learn about other ways to recycle or reduce your waste this holiday season. If you find yourself replacing an electronic device, do not throw the old one in the trash; send it on for reuse or take it to a recycling drop-off location.
by Charlotte Low, Outreach Coordinator
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