Celebrate Earth Day by Recycling E-Waste!

We all know that electronics aren’t made to last forever. Even the most well-made computers and other devices have a shelf life! So, what happens after they break down? How do you get rid of old electronics safely?

E-waste is short for “electronic waste.” It’s and is trash that’s generated from broken, obsolete, or surplus electronic devices like computers, laptops, batteries, toner cartridges, and TVs. These devices often contain toxic chemicals and other hazardous materials, so it’s important to dispose of them properly. 

The Benefits of Recycling E-Waste

According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, “e-waste is the most rapidly growing segment of the municipal solid waste stream.” Recycling your e-waste benefits the environment in several ways:

• Conserves natural resources. Electronics contain many materials that can be reused, refurbished, and recycled, such as those found in toner cartridges. The manufacturing process consumes energy to produce new products, which, depending on the process, may contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and water pollution. Refurbished toner cartridges may use significantly less raw materials than brand new cartridges. An example would be MSE remanufactured toner cartridges which use “79% less materials” than their “OEM equivalent.”
• Properly disposes of toxic chemicals. E-waste may contain high concentrations of chemicals and metals, including mercury, lead, and cadmium. Proper recycling and disposal keep these toxins out of our soil and water and protects the food we eat and the water we drink.
• Protects and supports your community. Reduce the amount of e-waste that’s incinerated and placed in landfills. Both of these processes may have a negative impact on our air, land, and water quality. We have limited space for landfills – which are filling up with materials that can be refurbished and reused. Refurbished materials support your community by providing local jobs to recycle and repurpose electronics; they can then be sold at a reduced price (benefiting both the local company and its customers) or donated to local non-profits. Recycling can be a win/win for your community!

Rather than pile old devices in your basement, there are many ways to dispose of them in a safe way that protects our planet. First, ask yourself if you need to upgrade your item, or if it can be repaired. If you don’t need to throw something away, a repair might be the easier solution. Here’s how:

1. If you purchased your product from a “big box” store like Best Buy, check to see if they have a store buy-back program. 
2. If you live in Ann Arbor, you can utilize Recycle Ann Arbor’s Drop-Off Station (DOS) at 2950 E. Ellsworth Road for proper appliance recycling and disposal. 
3. MCS collects empty toner cartridges, obsolete computers, monitors, printers, and other office equipment from our current customers FREE of charge!  Not our customer? We’re happy to pick up your e-waste for $100.  

Consumers today are buying more electronics, and businesses are using more technology than ever. We love working with the Ann Arbor community and are happy to help you figure out how to reduce your e-waste. 

Hear from one of our happy customers:

“Michigan Computer Supplies is a fantastic company. The people are helpful and caring. They deliver directly to the person that needs the item to make sure it gets to them. Orders are delivered the next day but they have willingly helped us out in emergency situations with immediate delivery. I can't thank them enough for their great service.”

Learning more is as easy as calling us at 734-213-5400 or sending us an email. See how we can help with toner cartridge recycling in Ann Arbor today