Technology is continuing to evolve, and obsolete items get replaced on what seems to be a daily basis nowadays. As a result, electronic waste collection is becoming a huge part of business recycling programs. Some of the most common e-waste—unwanted electronic items—that are collected for recycling include computers, printers, ink cartridges, cell phones, batteries, CDs, DVDs, and even cables. If your business does not currently have an electronics recycling program with its regular recycling program, it is time to start one. Here is what you need to do. 

Follow the 3Cs for Success

Culture – It is important that everyone in the business is on board with the e-waste recycling program—starting with the executives at the top. Encourage all employees to bring any unwanted and unused electronics from home. This will drastically limit the amount of e-waste that goes to the landfill, not to mention that it will allow your business to generate revenue from the electronics recycling program rebates.

Communication – You must inform everyone in the company about the new program; otherwise, no one will know about it. Take time to hold a meeting, show everyone where the recycling bins are located, and explain to them your ultimate goals for the e-waste program. Ensure that all bins are clearly marked with what goes in each bin and that they are similar to the rest of your recycling program.

Collection – You will need to either configure your current recycling bins so that e-waste bins can be added to them or you can simply purchase brand-new bins that fit in with your recycling program as a whole.

Set Up for Collection

When you purchase your e-waste bins, it is a good idea to know what you are going to focus on. For example, if you plan on accepting cell phones and tablets as well as cables and cords, you will want custom openings so that no items can be stolen. For cell phones and tablets, you want long, thin openings; then for cables and cords, you will want small, round openings.

Locate an Electronics Recycling Hauler

The last thing that you will need to do is get in touch with local electronics recycling hauling businesses. Your current recycling hauler may offer e-waste collection, so contact them first. If they do, find out how you can revise your contract to add the collection of e-waste. If they do not, they may be able to refer you to some local companies.