Let’s put this into perspective: Statista recorded that in 2018, the globe produced 49.8 million metric tons of e-waste. The number has skyrocketed throughout 2019, and that number is set to grow to 60 million tons by 2021.
Therefore, you can see why there is a push for people to start electronic recycling in a bid to stem the flow. Unfortunately, merely “recycling” your e-waste isn’t enough. You need to take it to a professional electronic recycling company that has the experience, process and commitment to do the job correctly.
However, with so many companies out there, you shouldn’t just hire any company that offers electronic recycling in Calgary. You have to take it to one that is environmentally responsible for its action and is committed to recycling in a socially acceptable and ecologically sound manner. Finding a company like this can be difficult, but with these pointers, you will be able to narrow down your search to find the best company possible.
Use Only Companies That Are Permitted To Operate As Recyclers
Not all electronic recycling companies are focused on recycling properly like most people think they do. They might collect the e-waste and destroy it, but don’t necessary recycle it for further use. Make sure that you look to hire a company that operates as a recycler; meaning they are committed to reusing products down the line. Ask for a proof of a permit to see if they are legitimate.
What To Do They With The Waste?
What exactly does the computer do with the waste? Many companies merely destroy the e-waste or send it off to be destroyed. In a way, they are just a rubbish collecting company, as opposed to being recyclers. See if they reuse the computers or devices for other services, or if they rip it apart and reuse the parts or materials again down the line. It’s important to know if they are committed to the reuse of their waste.
Are They Committed To Educating The Public?
With e-waste becoming a huge issue, the public has to be more informed about the process, the consequences and how they can help. Education, therefore, is critical. Look for a computer recycling company in Calgary that is committed to being part of the solution, and is involved in educating the public about e-waste.
Ask About Their Commitment To The Environment
See how transparent the company is when it comes to them proactively showing off their commitment to the environment. They should be open about what they plan to do and how they plan to help. Getting the word out of what they do highlights their commitment to their goals. More so, if they provide services such as a pick-up, it highlights that they are willing to go out of their way to help their community and city.
How Do They Go About With Their Data Security?
You would be silly just to hand off your computer to anyone, especially if you think that all your data has been cleared deleted. While simply deleting files or documents, or clearing out your ‘Trash’, is enough to convince people that the job is done, that’s not enough. Experienced hackers and experts can extract the information from the hard drives deep within your computer. That is why it is essential to ask your company about its data security destroying process. You want to work with a company that has a sound data security procedure, so you know your data is truly deleted.
Speak To Them About Their Recycling Facility
A company that offers electronic recycling should always have a facility in which they operate, and being a consumer, you should be asking about the status of their facility. Speak to them about their process and how they can cope with the vast amounts of e-waste daily.
See Their Prices For Their Services
These companies have to make money somehow, or they won’t be able to operate at any time. But the fine line is there. Look for an electronic recycling company that charges responsibly. If you see their prices are fair, it means that they are not conscious of profits, but are focused on the cause instead. Notice the ways they charge and how they negotiate with their clients. You see suss out it from there how they operate and whether profits drive them or not.
By researching and finding a responsible Calgary electronic recycling company, you will be helping make a difference to the e-waste problem. Commit, and you will notice the difference as time goes on.
The Electronic Recycling Association (ERA) is a non-profit organization founded in 2004, who’s goal is to reduce e-waste by reusing unwanted computers and related electronic equipment. We create an opportunity for the secondary use of IT equipment by low income, high needs Canadian families and charitable organizations. ERA is represented in most major cities all across Canada such as Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Montreal, and Toronto. We also offer convenient pick-up locations virtually anywhere in Canada.