While I’m on the topic of electronics, I must mention my trip to Best Buy this weekend and a fantastic service that I discovered.
I need to preface this with pointing out that electronics, unfortunately, create an amazing amount of e-waste when they have run their course of usefulness or get replaced. Our TV has seen better days, and that was the reason for the trip. Our “outgoing” TV is 17 years old and has reached the point where words on the TV were difficult to read and scrolling type is nearly impossible.
That TV will still be donated to a local charity that assists recovering addicts in setting up a home and, although it’s feasible for us to replace it, I know someone in need of assistance will appreciate our donation when they have “nothing”. On top of that, our donation keeps it from needlessly being tossed away… it DOES work, afterall.
Okay, back to my original story… Best Buy. My discovery? They have these new FANTASTIC kiosks just inside the entry to their stores that allow us to drop-off all of our e-waste for recycling, repair or repurposing. I’m talking everything… cellphones & chargers, CDs & DVDs, game controllers and components, remotes, printer cartridges, power cords, and even ‘empty’ gift cards! I… LOVE… IT!!!
These kiosks are available in EVERY store around the country, and there happen to be about 1100 of them! Find your store here.
While I believe that an electronic or ‘gadget’ still in working condition should be donated, this is the best source I’ve seen so far for a central drop-off location when they’ve run their course. Check out their site for more details and to learn about their program for the “big” electronics too.
In the meanwhile, sort through your house, fill a box of e-waste and know that you’ve FINALLY found a place for them!