TechCollect is sending out a friendly reminder to all Australians to
remember to recycle their old electronics when they upgrade to new
technologies. TechCollect is a free national e-waste recycling service funded
by over 60 of Australia’s leading technology importers and manufacturers.
TechCollect CEO Carmel Dollisson observes that Australians have an
insatiable appetite for innovation and technology, but it should not come at a cost
to the environment.
Why should e-waste be recycled? TechCollect explains that e-waste production
is not only thrice that of normal household waste but can also contain toxic
materials such as lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium and brominated
fire retardants that are hazardous, difficult to dispose of and potentially
damaging to the environment.
TechCollect’s Top 10 tips for
recycling e-waste
One in-two out
TechCollect’s one-in, two-out or the 1-2 rule requires every new piece of
technology entering the home to be balanced with the commitment to recycle two
pieces of unwanted technology. This eliminates or reduces the chances of all
the unwanted electronics in the home either ending up in landfill or getting
stashed in cupboards, garages, spare rooms and shelves.
Stay data safe
Any e-waste recycling effort must begin with completely wiping out any
important data or personal files on the computer.
Packaging pollutes
About 1.6 million tonnes of packaging ended up in landfill in 2012 –
more than a third of the approximately 4.4 million tonnes generated totally. It
is important to thoughtfully dispose of the cardboard box and any plastic
packaging that came with the new electronics purchase.
Mark your calendar
Choose a month each year to clear out your home of all household
e-wastes. Find the nearest collection site on techcollect.com.au and make it a
tradition. February, for instance is a good month after the holidays, and there
is likely to be new technology in the house from the Christmas/New Year sales.
Local council
Contact your local council and check whether they will accept your
e-waste.
Reincarnated relics
A top-notch recycling service such as the one offered by TechCollect can
recycle more than 90% of the materials in computers including metals, glass and
plastic. The recycled materials can be reused and reincarnated as jewellery,
outdoor furniture, or plastic fence posts.
Take it to the workplace
Inspire your co-workers and spread the message of recycling and reuse at
the workplace, and even at their homes. TechCollect operates several collection
sites and the collected e-waste can be dropped off at the nearest site. TechCollect has
special arrangements for medium to large businesses too.
Tied up in knots
TechCollect also recycles random power cables from old TVs, computers,
printers and accessories.
Pay it forward
Give away your computer or TV if they are still in good working
condition to family members or friends.
Spread the word among family and
friends
Encourage your friends and family to get
involved and take responsibility for their e-waste. Lead by example and help
out those that may need it, such as older relatives, and make sure it is
recycled responsibly.
