The Top Benefits of Electronics Recycling for the Environment

Electronics recycling can support better handling of material at end of life. Secure electronics recycling with documented downstream processing helps keep hazardous components out of landfills. CRT monitors can contain lead, and some batteries contain hazardous metals. Ask a provider which materials it accepts and how each stream is processed.

Material recovery is the second major environmental benefit. Electronics contain concentrations of copper, gold, silver, palladium, and rare earth elements that exceed the concentrations found in primary ore deposits at most operating mines. Recovering these materials from recycled electronics reduces the demand for energy-intensive and environmentally disruptive primary mining. Copper smelters, precious metal refiners, and rare earth processors who receive recovered materials from electronics recyclers are displacing a proportional fraction of primary mining activity.

The lifecycle environmental benefit extends to energy savings throughout the manufacturing chain: recycled aluminum requires 95% less energy than primary production; recycled copper requires 85% less; recycled gold requires approximately 99% less. Every ton of electronics properly recycled through documented channels can generate energy savings and associated greenhouse gas reductions throughout the manufacturing economy. Ask providers what processing records are available for lifecycle analysis and sustainability reporting. Call 866-770-2650.