Why E-Waste Recycling is Important

When evaluating electronics recycling, several factors come into play. Here are the most significant reasons why e-waste recycling is essential:

First and foremost, it is critical to keep electronic waste out of landfills. The EPA has highlighted the dangers of improperly disposed e-waste, which contains toxic substances and heavy metals like chromium, cadmium, mercury, and lead. These materials can leach into the soil, contaminating the air and waterways. The EPA estimates that around 60 million tons of e-waste are generated globally each year. Recycling this material not only prevents environmental contamination but also saves landfill space. Consequently, many states have enacted laws banning e-waste from landfills.

Electronic devices contain valuable materials, including precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum, as well as copper, aluminum, plastic, and glass. These materials can be reclaimed through recycling, as most electronic devices are nearly 100% recyclable. Discarding these valuable resources in landfills would be wasteful.

Reclaiming materials through recycling reduces the demand for new raw materials, helping to conserve important natural resources. According to the EPA, one metric ton of circuit boards contains 800 times more gold than one metric ton of ore.

Additionally, using recycled materials helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with manufacturing new products from virgin materials. The availability of recycled materials lowers the demand for virgin materials, thereby reducing emissions.

Furthermore, discarded electronic devices can be refurbished, reused, and donated to worthy causes, keeping them out of landfills. Chesapeak Shredding refurbishes old electronics and distributes them to those in need or will sell them to people who are in the market for refurbished hardware. "Reuse" is a vital component of reducing waste, and the EPA's website lists various donation programs at epa.gov/recycle/electronics-donation-and-recycling#where.

E-waste often ends up in scrapyards, mixed with cars, old appliances, and industrial scrap handled by the scrap metal recycling industry. Individual recyclers have different methods for handling these items, but progress is being made in extracting valuable materials and processing them through the recycling system.

When you need electronic recycling call us at Chesapeak Shredding. You may call 410-322-8700 to schedule an appointment. We also shred hard drives on-site and will provide a certification of destruction. We aim to be your one-stop shop for on-site paper shredding, electronic recycling and all forms of document destruction.