Have you decided what to do with your company’s out-of-date electronics?

With the constant evolution of technology, many businesses are in a constant race to stay on top of industry trends and innovations. For example, most companies require new laptops, computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices on a regular basis — but what should you do with your unwanted devices when it comes time to upgrade?

If your company doesn’t currently have an electronic recycling program, now is the time to start. To simplify the process, here are answers to five of the most common questions regarding safe e-waste recycling practices — so you can implement a secure, environmentally compliant recycling program and take care of your computer recycling with ease.

1. Should my company recycle old computers or throw them away?

If your company has outdated electronics piling up in the nearest storage closet, your first instinct may be to toss them in the dumpster and forget about them. As tempting as this may sound, improper electronic disposal comes with significant consequences. The most obvious result of poor e-waste management is the detrimental effect on the environment. Given that electronics do not biodegrade, toxic chemicals can seep into the surrounding ecosystems. When e-waste emits these chemicals, it leaches into the water, soil, and air, which poisons wildlife and humans alike.

And careless e-waste disposal does more than damage the environment. It also poses significant risks for your company, employees, and clients. Without the assistance of a certified e-waste recycling company, it is challenging to eliminate sensitive company data stored within each electronic device. As a result, your company’s sensitive information can easily fall into the wrong hands. A data breach from discarded electronics can compromise private data, cost your company millions in legal fees, and irreparably damage your reputation among clients and the general public.

Long story short, it’s always better to choose computer recycling over throwing them away.

2. Who handles computer recycling?

When you’re ready to recycle your electronic devices, who should you partner with to get the job done? E-waste recyclers can process your old electronics to ensure environmental compliance and the rescue of any reusable commodities. For example, many devices contain precious metals that can be repurposed for new manufacturing. 

But while there are plenty of e-waste recycling companies that are eager to get the job done, not all electronic recycling companies are created equal. Many e-waste servicers fail to properly eradicate data from electronic devices and toss them in the landfill or sell the devices to the highest bidder. To avoid costly data breaches, search for a certified electronic recycling company that provides ITAD services — that’s IT asset disposition. ITAD providers go the extra mile to ensure that your equipment is wiped of all sensitive information before it’s decommissioned.

3. Can we recycle both desktops and laptops?

Certified e-waste recycling companies will process a variety of electronics beyond desktop computers, including laptops, cell phones, scanners, printers, and more. Generally, the only electronics that cannot be safely recycled are those that contain mercury and lead because those products are considered hazardous waste. Such unrecyclable electronics include old televisions and monitors manufactured before 1991.

Even electronics that appear to be of little to no value may be candidates for recycling. If you’re unsure whether a specific device is safe or useful to recycle, simply consult your e-waste recyclers for a second opinion.

4. Can we earn money back from computer recycling?

Not only is proper electronic recycling beneficial to your company’s privacy and the environment, but it can also earn revenue that you can reinvest into your company. When certified recyclers are evaluating your end-of-life electronic assets, they will evaluate whether the materials are unusable or if they have any resale value. 

It may come as a surprise that, in many cases, electronic devices are most valuable in their original state. If you’re interested in profiting from device resale, let your recycling team know. After completing your data destruction, they can search for buyers interested in buying your electronics.

5. How can I find a reputable recycling company?

Before committing to an e-waste recycling company, perform your due diligence and ensure that their operations align with industry standards. The recycling company you work with should have the certifications, credentials, and testimonials necessary to prove that they are capable of meeting your needs. For example, companies with the R2 certification have the complete environmental, health, and safety management system required to ensure that all electronics are disposed of in a manner that is both environmentally friendly and secure. Furthermore, to address security issues, select a company that includes secure hard drive destruction and ITAD in their e-waste recycling services.

Electronics evolve quickly, and innovative companies prefer to update their hardware on a regular basis — so bear in mind that your e-waste recyclers may become partners that serve your business for years to come. Choose a reputable recycling company whose values align with your business.

Reliable Computer Recycling with FAMCe

Computer recycling and other e-waste disposal can involve a lot of regulations and potential pitfalls. But with the assistance of certified, reputable recyclers, your company can dispose of your company’s electronic devices the right way. So when it’s time to get rid of your old electronics, choose a partner you can rely on.

Our reputable e-waste recyclers at First America Metal Corp. (FAMCe) have the expertise, experience, and certifications necessary to take care of all your company’s electronic needs. With over 30 years of experience helping businesses safely and responsibly recycle their outdated devices, our track record speaks for itself. FAMCe’s high level of expertise and exceptional customer service have built our reputation as an industry leader, and we are committed to exceeding each client’s needs and expectations.

With multiple locations nationwide, FAMCe is ready to cater to all your computer recycling needs. If you want to recycle your old devices with confidence, contact FAMCe today for e-waste disposal that’s ethical and secure.