Electronics Recycling in Minnesota
As we rely more and more on electronics every day, we’re unfortunately generating waste. Our gadgets get broken or become obsolete, and they have to go somewhere. Choosing electronics recycling isn’t only the best choice for the environment; it’s also required by Minnesota law in some circumstances. TV and computer recycling are part of a statewide effort to reduce the environmental impact of electronics.
E-waste recycling is especially important due to a few factors. Not only does recycling your electronics save a few steps in the manufacturing process, but it also slows the need for precious mined materials. Some of those materials can be toxic if they end up in our soil, air, and water, so keeping electronics out of the dump is one solution. Since landfills often burn trash in bulk, harmful substances have a one-way ticket into the air we breathe.
So, what can you do to help? Electronics recycling processes are improved constantly, so we can now recycle more than ever. The process isn’t always simple, but it’s worth it.
How Are Electronics Recycled?
Our electronics are made of one or more recyclable materials. The most eco-friendly option is donating your used electronics, but if they don’t work, you can have them picked up for electronics recycling. Our process at Junk Masters involves only the first step of the process. So, what happens next?
1. Separate
Not all electronics recyclers will accept all materials, so either check around or leave it to Junk Masters. If you’re looking for Minneapolis, Minnesota electronics recycling centers, for example, you need to search or call around. Depending on what kind of items you have, you might not have to drive too far. Once the electronics are in the right place, they’re separated for the first time. Printer cartridges are removed from printers, batteries from phones, and all parts that can’t be shredded get taken out by hand.
2. Shred & Remove Metals
Next, the remaining pieces go through a shredder. The scraps have to go through a few times to get the pieces small enough to easily deal with. Once broken down enough, recyclers pass a giant magnet over the scraps to collect steel and iron. All metal collected gets sent off to be melted down and used in nearly infinite ways.
3. More Separating
Not all metals are removed by the magnet. Aluminum, copper, and other metals are easily recyclable, so they get separated for further use. Everything from glass to plastic is separated through methods like water and manual separation.
This process is used for most electronics, but CRT TV recycling is more complicated and uses a different process for safe recycling. While the fee may be higher, that’s because there is a higher concentration of toxic materials like lead. It takes more work to extract those materials, which may be recycled into more TVs, but it’s more than worth it. If they’re not removed safely, lead, barium, and other dangerous substances bleed into the environment.
What You Can Recycle
Wondering how you can do your part? Since Minnesota electronics recycling law says you can’t throw away your TVs and computers, you can go a step further by recycling all your electronics! Nearly every one of your electronics can be recycled in some way. However, some may come with a fee. Junk Masters can do the work of hauling and transporting your electronics for you, including all recyclable electronics.
- Phones & Tablets
- Computers & Monitors
- Printers & FAX Machines
- Gaming Systems
- Batteries
- And More
Electronics Recycling Near You
You can find electronics recycling centers all over Minnesota. If you have a large amount of electronics or one of those heavy old TVs, you can contact Junk Masters. We offer full-service electronics recycling in Minneapolis, Minnesota and the rest of the Twin Cities metro areas. Save a trip when you call the pros!
