When most of us hear the word “recycling”, what usually comes to mind? For many of us, it’s empty gallons of milk, paper products, and aluminum cans. Little do some know that we can do something about that broken laptop, ruined hard drive, and other electronic products. Recycling electronic waste is an important part of keeping our environment clean. Here are some products you  can recycle that you might not be aware of, as well as some of the environmental effects:

Circuit Boards: Computer circuit boards contain heavy metals that can reach deadly toxicity levels. Chromium, silver, antimony, zinc, copper, tin, and mercury can be found in these machines, all elements that can be harmful. Over one-hundred thousand computers are “left for dead” a day. With such high numbers, not properly disposing of them can add up to some serious consequences in the long run. If these toxins eventually reach our water supply – which they undoubtedly will, if trends don’t change – we could be in serious trouble.

Monitors: Many people don’t realize that their computer monitors contain lead, which helps to shield them from radiation as they sit in front of their screens. It’s no mystery that lead poisoning has had its scares around the world, and how serious it can be at high levels. Landfills certainly are not the place for such things, especially when recycling is such a simple option.

Computer Chips and Semiconductors: This is where you can find cadmium. Cadmium has no positive use for human’s bodies, and can only be poinonous, even at low levels. It can produce extreme sickness, starting with simple headaches and fevers, eventually hitting the respiratory system, causing tracheobronchitis, and sometimes leading to death. The quicker you can recycle these parts of your machines, the better – and avoiding exposure is key.

Batteries: Most educated people are aware of the levels of mercury that are present in batteries, but mercury can also be found in switches and relays. With prolonged exposure, mercury can cause vision loss, hearing loss, and difficulties in speech.

So you see, recycling certainly isn’t limited to common household items that we normally think of. Rather, electronic devices contain plenty of harmful elements that can be recycled and should be recycled. There are plenty of companies that are willing to pick up your used electronic devices, and all it takes is a phone call or quick consultation, leaving very little of the work on your shoulders.

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