E-waste: The Hidden Crisis, The Rising Solution

He encouraged those with larger donations to drop them off at their warehouse ahead of time to avoid long lines.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): In a world filled with electronic gadgets, it’s easy to forget what happens to old devices.

Fortunately, organizations like the e-opala Computer Recycling Center and ʻŌlelo Community Media are working hard to ensure that electronic waste, or e-waste, is recycled properly.

This is crucial because when electronics are thrown away, they can leak toxic chemicals into our environment.

Jason Gruver, the founder of the e-opala Computer Recycling Center, explained his organization’s mission.

“We were the first and only recycling company that strictly deals with e-waste in electronics. We started in 2018, and we have been growing ever since.” Gruver’s company collects a wide variety of electronic devices, making it easier for people to recycle them. “We partner with ʻŌlelo twice a year for collection events, which helps raise awareness and gather more e-waste,” he added.

Roger McKeague, the president and CEO of ʻŌlelo Community Media, shared why their organization became involved in e-waste recycling.

“At ʻŌlelo, we focus on helping nonprofits, schools, and government agencies. We use a lot of electronic equipment, and as it ages, we needed a way to dispose of it responsibly.” McKeague’s team discovered Gruver’s recycling efforts and realized they could collaborate for the benefit of the community.

During their collection events, the organizations accept a variety of items, primarily electronic devices.

Gruver noted, “We collect just about any electronic device except medical and cooking appliances. Our main targets are computers, laptops, TVs, printers, and electrical cords.”

He also mentioned that they even take older items like CRT TVs and old cell phones.

When asked about the importance of these events, Gruver emphasized the need for proper recycling.

“Many people either hoard their old electronics, throw them in the trash, or hide them away. This can lead to dangerous chemicals leaking into the environment. Our goal is to make recycling easy and convenient.”

In fact, he mentioned that millions of pounds of e-waste are diverted from landfills every year, thanks to their efforts.

But what if someone has a lot of old electronics and wants to recycle them outside of the collection events?

Gruver reassured them, “We take drop-offs and donations seven days a week at our Laguna Pono location on Kelly House Street. There’s no charge for individuals who want to recycle.”

This means that even if there isn’t an event happening, people can still bring their e-waste for recycling.

McKeague also explained the role of ʻŌlelo in this partnership. “We help spread the word about the importance of recycling e-waste. Initially, we had accumulated quite a bit of electronics ourselves. Finding a way to recycle and reuse them became a priority.”

He noted that through their collaboration with Gruver, they could help both their organization and others in the community dispose of electronics responsibly.

As the upcoming collection event approaches, Gruver shared the details. “The event will take place on Oct. 19 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at ʻOlelo Community Media, located at 1122 Mapunapuna Street in Mapunapuna.”

He encouraged those with larger donations to drop them off at their warehouse ahead of time to avoid long lines.

Community engagement is key to making these recycling efforts successful. Gruver reminded everyone, “It’s essential for people to understand the environmental impact of their old electronics. We want to help them see that recycling is not only easy but also beneficial for the planet.”

Both Gruver and McKeague expressed hope for a strong turnout at the event. “Last year, we had over 400 cars show up,” Gruver recalled. “We’re excited to see even more people this time around.”

Recycling e-waste isn’t just about cleaning out old drawers; it’s about taking responsibility for our environment. Here are things you can bring to the e-waste event:

-TVs

-Laptops & Laptop Batteries

-Computers

-Monitors

-Printers

-Power Tool Batteries

-Cell Phone Batteries

Please note that cooking appliances, electric personal items and stereo equipment will not be accepted.

Courtesy: www.khon2.com

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