Electronic waste continues to grow exponentially across the world.  The EPA noted that e-waste represents the fastest growing municipal waste stream in the US, and although it constitutes only 2% of the US landfills, it represents 70% of the overall toxic waste1.  Globally, as noted by the United Nations, in 2019, over 50 million metric tons of e-waste was discarded.

Although recycling is a viable option to properly dispose of electronic waste, it does not prevent the creation of electronic waste.  The true solution to e-waste prevention starts before you decide how to throw away your device.  It all starts from the moment you decide that you need to replace or get a new device.

Here are a few top solutions to reducing e-waste:

1) Ensure that the new device is better than the old one

It is important to take a step back and assess the need for a new device.  Research is important to ensure that the new device is not just a “new shiny thing”, but there are real benefits which would increase productivity or access to needed features and capabilities.

2) Repair or improve the current device

If your device is broken, try taking it to a repair store and getting it fixed.  If your machine is lacking in performance, see if you can add memory or switch out a component for a better one.  If you are not savvy with repair, there are many stores which can provide support on this.

3) Virtual Desktop options can enhance existing devices

Virtualization has continued to improve with technology and the speed of the internet.  You can enhance your device by merely leveraging the high-performance computers in the cloud without having to worry about how good your computer is.  Upgrades are as simple as a click of a button.  Try services like Shells or Amazon Workspaces.

4) Donate a device to charity

Just like with any other object, there will always be someone else who is less fortunate that can use your device.  There are a number of charities who are now refurbishing and distributing devices properly to those in need.  RRR Computer is one charity that is doing a lot of great work in the US.

5) Buy refurbished or a high-performance product that you know will last

Buying a quality refurbished device has never been easier with most companies like Amazon, Best Buy, and even Apple offering devices that are certified.  If you have to buy new, make sure that you are buying something that is not going to be outdated or not supported in a matter of months.  You may need to spend a little extra up-front, but it will definitely be a better decision in the long run.

These solutions will surely make sure that you are moving in the right direction when it comes to reducing e-waste.  Taking advantage of any of these solutions will be a small but everlasting change.

1 Slade, Giles. "iWaste." Mother Jones, 2007. Web Accessed April 11, 2015.