From mobile phones to tablets, including computers and headphones. The number of electronic devices we use daily continues to grow year after year, along with the kilograms of electronic waste generated in our country.
In Spain alone, 935 thousand tons of electronic waste were discarded in 2022, making us the sixth largest generator in Europe according to data from the International Observatory on Electronic Waste of 2024. On the other side of the scale, during the same period, 395 thousand tons were collected and recycled, officially documented.
On the occasion of World Recycling Day (May 17), the Spanish consumer technology brand SPC shares a list of best practices to reduce the footprint we leave when disposing of electronic devices we no longer use, 4 tips for conscious use of used devices, and raising awareness about the importance of reducing our environmental impact.
1. Give your device a new life. Even if you feel like you need a new smartphone with the latest features or a tablet with a bigger screen and better resolution, it’s very likely that someone else can still use your old device and extend its life. In this regard, in Spain there are some associations and NGOs that will be happy to receive your used devices.
2. A defect is not the end of the world. A scratch on the screen, a key that doesn’t work, a battery that drains too quickly… these are parts that can be replaced. Before getting rid of a device because it has a defect, it’s important to consider whether it’s feasible to repair that small issue instead of going to the store to buy a new device.
3. Sell or trade in to start paying for the new device. If you’re set on investing in and buying a new device, you can get a little help by selling your old one to a specialized store. Even if you think your used device has no value, there are surely specialists interested in it, either as a whole or for parts. Also, some stores will give you a discount on your new device if you trade in the old one. Before doing this, it’s important to erase all personal information and data by restoring the device to factory settings to protect your privacy.
4. Separate and reuse accessories. When recycling a device, don’t forget to pay attention to chargers, cables, headphones, or cases, as they don’t always follow the same recycling process as the device itself. Some, like chargers or headphones, can be reused with your new device if they are compatible. Others, like cases, can be recycled separately if their materials allow it.
5. If you’re going to throw it away, take it to a recycling center. And if, as a last resort, you have no choice but to get rid of your old device, you should consider that, with the number of components inside, it’s not advisable to handle the device yourself. Some batteries, for example, can be dangerous if handled incorrectly.
Regarding the container, neither the yellow one for plastics and packaging nor the one for general waste are suitable for proper recycling. When your device is obsolete, and after backing up your data and removing SIM and memory cards to avoid losing anything, it should be taken to a recycling center where it can be managed as waste. To make this easier, you can check the online search for collection points clean points made available to users by OCU.
Enjoying a new device, following some of the recommended practices by SPC, doesn’t have to harm the environment. Using devices consciously and making the most of their full lifespan is another way to promote a sustainable lifestyle.
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