# Recycling & Reusing Old Electronics

- Link: https://cellularsmartfix.ca/recycling-reusing-old-electronics/
- Published: 2017-05-04T04:05:28+00:00
- Author: CELLULAR SMARTFIX

Now that the holidays have past and people have gotten used to their new devices,
it’s time to consider what to do with the old ones. Tossing old electronics in the
trash is terrible for the environment and completely unnecessary because there are
much better alternatives for disposing of unwanted devices.

Before doing anything else with an old device be sure your personal information 
is removed. Once you’re sure it’s cleared, you can choose the best option depending
on the condition, age, and potential of the device.

##### 1. First

You have the option to reuse it. Is there a child or younger sibling who has always
wanted your device? What about a less tech-savvy friend who has been asking advice
on electronics? Give them your gently used one. Many electronics that get replaced
are still in good, working condition and can be re-gifted to someone else. This 
can give those who are interested but unsure if they actually want a device the 
option to test it out and see if it’s for them. It could also be used as the designated
kid-device if you have children who constantly ask to play games or watch videos.
An old phone is a great toy for toddlers, although it’s best to remove the battery
because even phones without a calling plan can make an emergency 911 call.

##### 2.Second

You can repurpose it. Keep an old phone in a vehicle with a car charger so you can
call for emergency assistance if there’s ever a need and your regular phone is dead
or forgotten. An old tablet can become a digital picture frame: upload pictures 
or videos, turn on the slideshow, add some velcro to the back and hang it on the
wall. There are apps that can be downloaded to turn your old tablet into a remote
control. Load an old tablet or phone with songs and keep it in the car as a music
player.

##### 3.Third

You can sell it. Amazon will buy many used devices and pay with Amazon gift cards.
Gazelle is a national company that will buy used phones and computers for cash. 
Other possibilities are eBay, Craigslist, or a local Facebook seller’s page.

##### 4.Lastly

You can recycle it. If a device is broken beyond repair, old enough that no one 
else wants it, or just past its usefulness, you have a responsibility to dispose
of it properly. Most devices are not safe to simply throw in the trash, due to substances
like lead, mercury, and lithium that are used in making the device and its battery.
Instead of just tossing it in the trash, give it to one of many places that take
old devices and dispose of them. Options include electronic stores like Best Buy,
wireless providers, some grocery stores like Whole Foods, even some public libraries
have cell phone & small electronics recycling bins. If none of these options are
available in your area, a local recycling center can also take old electronics.

Whatever you decide to do, please remember to be responsible when disposing of old
devices and don’t simply throw them in the trash.