E-Waste Systems Inc. (fka EWSI)

[12yearplan]

According to Wirefly.org, the average cell phone user gets a new cell phone every 18 months.
In the U.S., we toss more than 100 million cell phones in the trash every year.
The EPA reports that over 112,000 computers are discarded every single day, in the U.S. alone. That’s 41.1 million desktops and laptop computers per year.
20 million TVs are trashed in the U.S. every year.
Only 13% of electronic waste is disposed and recycled properly.
A recent United Nations report suggests that in some countries, production of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), which includes obsolete mobile phones, computers, and HDTVs, could rise by as much as 500% over the next decade. USA Today projected electronic-waste growth and predicted that by 2014, manufacturers will produce 70 million tons of “e-waste.”

http://www.moneycrashers.com/electronic-e-waste-recycling-disposal-facts/

Other organizations, like the Salvation Army and Goodwill, can sell your used electronics and use the profits to educate and empower others who need help. Goodwill has been particularly active with its Reconnect program, which has a strict no-export policy.

Every time you replace one of your electronic devices, it’s your responsibility to be sure your old one gets recycled properly.

Ideally, your first step will be to consume less. Don’t get pulled into the hype of new technology if you can help it. If you do want something, try to find a gently-used version first. Then, when you have an expired product, take the time to find a responsible e-waste recycler.

Be a part of the solution. Help properly recycle as much e-waste as possible. You’ll make the Earth a better place, help halt digital data dumps, feel proud of your accomplishment, meet new friends, and maybe even make your wallet a little greener!

How do you normally dispose of your electronics? Do you have any additional tips for properly recycling e-waste?