In our high-tech world, electronic gadgets are upgraded and discarded at an unprecedented rate. This has led to a global concern known as electronic waste or e-waste. As we continually seek the latest technology, what happens to our old, unwanted devices? More often than not, they end up in landfills, releasing harmful toxins into the environment.

This blog post shines a spotlight on the environmental impact of e-waste and underscores the importance of electronics recycling, including copper recycling, as a solution to combat this growing issue. Read on to learn why it’s not just crucial, but also rewarding, to recycle your old gadgets.

Call 1-888-586-5322 for E-Waste Recycling in Indianapolis Indiana

The Environmental Impact of E-Waste

E-waste is any discarded electronic device, including computers, smartphones, televisions, and other household appliances. These items contain hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, and cadmium that can be harmful to human health and the environment if not disposed of properly. According to the Global E-waste Monitor 2020 report by the United Nations University, a record 53.6 million metric tons of e-waste was generated globally in 2019, with only 17.4% being recycled through appropriate channels.

The Dangers of Improper Disposal

When electronic devices are disposed of carelessly in landfills or incinerators, they release toxic chemicals into the air, water, and soil. These contaminants can seep into our food and water sources, leading to serious health issues such as respiratory problems, birth defects, and even cancer. Moreover, burning e-waste releases harmful gases into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution and climate change.

The Benefits of Recycling

The most effective way to reduce the negative impact of e-waste is through recycling. Recycling can be defined as the process of converting waste materials into new products, reducing the need for raw materials and energy consumption. When old electronics are recycled, valuable resources like gold, silver, copper, and palladium can be extracted and reused in manufacturing new electronics. This not only conserves natural resources but also reduces the environmental impact of mining for these materials.

The Importance of Copper Recycling

Among the materials commonly found in electronic devices, copper stands out as one of the most valuable and beneficial to recycle. Copper is a highly conductive metal used in wiring and circuit boards, making it a crucial component of many electronics. By recycling copper from e-waste instead of mining for new copper, we can save energy and reduce carbon emissions by up to 65%. Additionally, recycling one ton of copper can save 15,000 pounds of ore from being extracted from the earth.

How You Can Help

As consumers, we have the power to make a positive impact on the environment by responsibly disposing of our old electronics. Instead of throwing them away, consider donating or selling functional devices that no longer serve your needs. For devices that are no longer usable, seek out certified electronics recyclers who can safely extract valuable materials and dispose of hazardous waste according to environmental regulations.

The Rewards of Recycling

Recycling e-waste not only benefits the environment but also has economic advantages. In addition to saving resources and reducing pollution, it creates job opportunities in the recycling industry and can even generate revenue through the sale of recovered materials. Many manufacturers have also implemented take-back programs, offering incentives such as discounts or cashback for returning their products for recycling.

Conclusion

In conclusion, electronic waste poses a significant threat to the environment and human health. By recycling our old gadgets, including copper recycling, we can reduce the volume of e-waste in landfills and mitigate its harmful effects. So, next time you upgrade your phone or computer, don’t forget to recycle your old one – it’s a small but impactful action towards a cleaner and more sustainable future. Let’s all do our part in the fight against e-waste.

Now that you understand the importance of recycling old electronics, it’s time to start making money while helping the environment! Contact Garden City Iron & Metal at 1-888-586-5322 to speak with a professional scrap metal buyer in Indianapolis, Indiana about e-waste recycling services. We accept all scrap metal and metal commodities, including scrap copper and electronics.

Wi-Fi Thermostats

Wi-Fi thermostats offer the same benefits as programmable ones, such as digital interfacing, temperature control, and time schedules. But they offer them in the smartest way possible, plus even more high-tech features! Their feature designs offer improved energy-efficiency, remote programming, Geo-fencing, and even feedback on consumption and efficiency. Wi-Fi thermostats have to be synced with a Wi-Fi router; and then property owners can check and adjust their thermostats via an online application, tablet, computer, or smart phone.

Below are some popular make and model Wi-Fi thermostats on the market currently. If you are interested in installing a Wi-Fi thermostat in your home or office, consider one of these models and ask your local HVAC professional if it’s a good fit for your heating and cooling needs.

Honeywell® Lyric Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat

This round-shaped thermostat generally costs anywhere between $250 and $300, depending on the retailer. It comes with features like Geo-fencing, smart cues, fine tune, motion-sensor display, and shortcut settings. These features allow the temperature to be perfectly controlled while you are away, takes humidity into consideration, allows you to preset custom settings, keeps you informed of your property’s energy and air consumption, and much more. This model can be matched with multi-stage HVAC systems as well.

Aprilaire® Touchscreen Wi-Fi Thermostat

This thermostat runs for $300 or more on the market. It has a large, touch-screen digital display with an adjustable back light. This screen displays the room’s temperature and humidity, as well as, the set temperature and the outdoor temperature! And just like the Honeywell model, it comes with a message center that gives feedback and instructions. It is easily removed from the wall and easily programmable. If fact, it offers an option for 7-day programming or custom weekend/weekday programming.

ecobee3® Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat

This very interesting Wi-Fi thermostat can sense if anyone is home or not! Now that’s a smart thermostat! It intuitively comprehends and adjusts the temperature settings based on several criteria, including a home’s current occupancy. It is energy-efficient, even more so when no one’s home. And you can monitor or adjust the thermostat right from your very own smart phone or tablet! Just like the Aprilaire®, the ecobee3® also comes with a large, LCD touch-screen display and can be remote controlled and programmed. They generally cost an upwards of $300 or more, depending on the retailer.

What To Do With an Old or Broken Thermostat System

When it comes time to replace your thermostat with a more modern model, don’t let your old one go to waste. Regardless of its condition or age, you can recycle your thermostat, as well as all other old or broken electronics, at your local scrap metal recycling center. They might even pay you cash for your stuff! Just be sure to choose a reputable Indianapolis scrap metal buyer in your town so you know you are getting a fair payout and good customer service.

Where to Recycling Old and Broken Electronics in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Garden City Iron & Metal at 1-888-586-5322 to recycle electronics in Central and Southern Indiana. We pay cash on the spot for both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, including junk cars, automotive parts, appliances, construction equipment, motorized farming equipment, and more. Check out all the metals we buy to see what you can turn in for an instant profit! Then request a free estimate for your scrap metal, today.

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Why Your Old Gadgets Should be Recycled: The Environmental Impact of E-Waste