Electronic devices have become a part of our lives, homes, and offices: computers, laptops, tablets, printers, scanners, fax machines, monitors, printers, TVs, cell phones, Alexa, Ring door bells, Video surveillance cameras, hard drives, cords and cables, stereos, radios, etc. As old equipment gets replaced with new devices, you will want to get rid of your old technology to simplify the clutter in your home. Recycling electronics is an important way to reduce and minimize the environmental impact of electronic waste that may contain hazardous materials if not disposed of properly. Proper recycling of electronics can help recover valuable resources, as well as protect our environment and water tables from toxic materials.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Before recycling or donating electronics, ensure all personal data (files, passwords, bookmarks, etc.) is securely erased from the device. After backing up your files and information, reset the device back to factory from the device settings in order to protect your identity from being stolen. Also, remove any batteries, which should be recycled separately.

These are some ways to responsibly recycle old electronics:

Donate: donate working devices to a charitable organization for resale and reuse. Many organizations and schools are in need of functioning electronics. Donating your used devices can help bridge the digital divide and reduce electronic waste.
Manufacturer Take-Back Programs: Many manufacturers offer take-back or recycling programs for their products. Companies like Apple, Dell, and HP have established programs to responsibly recycle old devices.
Retailer Recycling Programs: Big retailers like Best Buy and Staples offer in-store recycling programs for various types of electronics: phones, desktops, laptops, tablets, flat screen monitor displays, printers, TV and audio devices, ink and batteries.
Staples: https://www.staples.com/stores/recycling?form=MG0AV3
Best Buy:
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/services/recycling/pcmcat149900050025.c?id=pcmcat149900050025&form=MG0AV3
Trade-In Programs: Many electronics companies offer trade-in programs that give you credit towards new devices when you return old ones.
Calls2Recycle: This site shows local places where you can recycle cell phones and batteries. https://www.call2recycle.org/Locator/?form=MG0AV3
EcoATM: Located in many Walmart stores, EcoATM kiosks offer to buy your old cell phone for a cash price instantly. First charge your phone, back up your info, and remove the memory card and reset your smart phone to factory.
Certified E-Waste Recycling Centers: Seek out certified e-waste recyclers in your area. Certification programs, like e-Stewards and R2 (Responsible Recycling), ensure that electronics are recycled in an environmentally responsible manner.
https://www.leegov.com/solidwaste/recycling/electronics
Approved electronics recyclers erase or destroy hard drives and memory-containing devices, then break down the devices to recover reusable or recyclable components.
https://www.ecoatm.com/?form=MG0AV3
CRT Monitors and TVs: There is no market for those boat anchor, heavy CRT monitors and TVs. They are not being accepted by retail / thrift stores or Goodwill. Place them at the curb for Waste Pro to pick up with your regular trash (assuming you can even lift them!). You may also take unwanted electronics and chemicals to the 6441 Topaz Court solid waste facility in Fort Myers.

Earth Day ways to reduce both your utility bills and greenhouse emissions:

turn off lights and electronics when not using them.
switch to energy-efficient LED light bulbs.
use a programmable thermostat to control your home’s heating and cooling.

I believe in making your computers easier and safer to use at an affordable price. Thank you for trusting me to keep your computers healthy. Contact us at 239-567-0104 to renew your protection software, join our Loving Your Computer training, get advice to replace an older computer, select and install a new computer, or schedule computer and printer help. Be well.

By Linda Lindquist, April 14, 2025
https://www.computerandinternethelp.com/contact-us

EARTH DAY – RESPONSIBLY RECYCLE YOUR ELECTRONICS