Disposing of your cellphones, computers and televisions may seem like a challenge but there are several options available in the Scarborough area. Many of your old devices still may hold some value and can be recycled or donated. If this is not the case, there are alternatives to simply tossing them in the trash. Here are some ideas on how to properly dispose of your outdated electronics.
Local Hazardous Waste Facility
You may not have the option of curbside collection for electronics with batteries. That’s because they can pose a risk of fire or explosion. The best place for you to take your old electronics to be dismantled and recycled would be your local waste facility centre. Some of these are operated by the county and some serve specific cities. Reach out to your community’s public works department to find where there’s a waste facility near your home.
Rent a Dumpster
If you’re doing a large clean out of your home gathering your electronics should be a part of it. By renting a roll-off dumpster you can get rid of everything in one step. You can get rid of your broken appliances, old furniture and unused electronics and not have to spend time taking them to different collection locations.
Curbside Collection
You may only have a small number of electronics to dispose of, so you can place them into your recycle bin and leave them at the curb for collection. Do a little research because some cities don’t allow electronics to be disposed of in landfills because some may contain hazardous materials. Check with your local recycling management company for the greater Toronto area.
Sell Old Electronics
If you think your outdated or unused electronics are still valuable you can always try to sell them. Websites such as eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist are convenient places to sell unwanted items. This is an easy and profitable way to sell your items rather than having them end up in a landfill.
Trade-In or Take Back Programs
If you’ve decided to upgrade your electronic devices, reach out to the retailer or manufacturer. They may offer a trade-in or discount if you turn in an older model. Amazon offers an option to mail them your old electronics in exchange for Bluetooth devices, tablets, e-readers and cellphones. Apple offers a similar program for your outdated watches, computers, iPhones, and iPads that are still in good shape.
Local E-Waste Collection Events
Some communities hold events to encourage the residents to dispose of their old electronics. To find out where these types of events are being held, reach out to your city’s service department. Ask them where you can drop off your items and what types of devices they accept for disposal.
Donate Your Used Electronics
If your electronics are not too old and still in good working order you may be able to donate them rather than dispose of them. Most items will be accepted for donation if they are less than 5 years old, don’t need any service or parts, and work properly. If your electronics are in disrepair that could be an issue because most charities don’t have the resources to fix broken devices. Do a little research because you may find that some accept devices that need to be fixed. Here are just a few ways to donate your electronics:
Community Organizations
Employment programs, adult education facilities, libraries and local schools sometimes accept functioning computers. You may want to look into contacting local homeless shelters and domestic violence facilities too. They often accept TVs, computers and cell phones. Contact your local senior living centre to see if they need one of your old functioning televisions.
National Organizations
Many nonprofits gather used electronics to help continue their work in the community. Reach out to any of the organisations listed below to see if they will accept your electronics for donation.
Goodwill – They will accept various electronic accessories, cell phones, DVD players, stereos, and computers. However, TVs are not accepted at most of their locations. Contact them directly to see what items they’ll accept.
reBOOT Canada – You can go to their website and learn how to donate your electronics and see what items they are interested in collecting.
Salvation Army – Reach out to your local facility to see what they are currently accepting regarding TVs, computers, and cell phones. You can usually schedule a pick-up or a drop-off for your used items at a shop near you.
Telus – This company will accept your old phones for donation or trade-in. They specialise in giving your old phones and tablets a second life by putting them in the hands of someone who needs them.
By donating or recycling your old electronics you’re not only decreasing your carbon footprint in the community but helping someone who may need the equipment. A great place to start is by contacting the recycling professionals at Manville Recycling. We have nearly 20 years of experience in the recycling industry and are experts when it comes to recycling E-Waste. Give us a call at 416-751-4732 and one of our knowledgeable people will be happy to answer any questions you may have about disposing of your electronics or anything else you’ve been wanting to recycle.