Digital Home Thoughts: The Untold Story Of E-waste

"The brand new tablet/smartphone/GPU you grabbed last week is the cat's meow. But what happens to it - or to any of the devices you once treasured- when you don't want or need them anymore? Where do they go? Is there a reliable, "green" way to dispose of them? And hey, does one extra electronic gadget in a landfill really put the big hurt on the environment?"

When we buy new electronics we do it with the understanding our old ones get recycled at some point by someone somewhere. But do you ever wonder what that really means? What parts are recycled and at what cost to the environment? Maximum PC has put together an in-depth story regarding all aspects of e-waste with some mind blowing pictures. It's an interesting read especially with Earth Day just around the corner. Below are some steps they have listed if you want to help reduce the amount of e-waste.

1. Do not toss any electronic item in the trash.

2. If you're in the market for a replacement device, first consider the options. Is your current product upgradeable? Do you really need those new features?

3. Buy products that are part of a manufacturer "takeback" program.

4. Sell your old but functioning products on an online classified ad site, or donate them to a responsible local charity or organization. And don't forget - you may be eligible for a charitable donation receipt.

5. Patronize manufacturers and retailers that have strong green principles. Check their websites and the links in this article.

6. Try to purchase sustainable/upgradeable devices.

7. Give yourself a cool-down period before jumping on the Next Big Thing. And if the cool-down fails, quietly ponder the gobs of cash you've sunk into the "latest and greatest" in the past. And be sad.

8. If your state doesn't have an e-waste law, contact your local representative and ask why. (Here's a list of those that do)

9. Check the e-Stewards site for a roundup of recyclers that meet the vigorous e-Steward requirements.

10. Consult the EPA page for lots of good information on recycling, takeback, and donation programs.

So, what are you doing to cut down on e-waste?