TECHNOLOGY TIPS – SPRING CLEAN YOUR ELECTRONICS

TECHNOLOGY TIPS – SPRING CLEAN YOUR ELECTRONICS

It’s that time of year again when we are starting to feel the warm weather and the promise of new beginnings. It’s also time to take a look at all your electronics and give them a quick update or overhaul. Personally I have to recycle some electronics and wanted to share the information I found with you.

The list of recyclables is rather extensive. You simply need to know where to go with them. The main area I’m going to focus is electronics. Electronics can range from televisions and computer components to phones and cell phones VCRs DVD players fax machines stereo equipment and copy machines according to the Chicago Recycling Coalition.

Household electronics can contain hazardous materials such as mercury lead and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls). When you throw your electronics in your traditional garbage they can contaminate the water air and soil. By recycling your electronics any hazardous materials are reprocessed and reused responsibly.

There are many locations to recycle your products all of which have lists of acceptable and unacceptable products. For example Staples accepts used computers monitors or printers during regular business hours for a $10 fee while peripherals such as keyboards mice and speakers are accepted for no charge. The City of Chicago also has many drop off centers depending on your location. The largest facility is the Household Chemicals & Computer Recycling Facility located at 1150 N. Branch Street.

Whatever your plans be sure to recycle your electronics responsibly. And remember you can probably use some of the components from old equipment on newer equipment which is must less costly than purchasing brand new.

CATHY MALLERS & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO