Tampa, Florida – Today is International E-Waste Day and the city of Tampa wants to make recycling old hardware as easy as possible.
Many people rely on technology in this modern digital age, but the problem is that when you upgrade and buy the latest and greatest, you leave behind tons of so-called e-waste. All of them are old technologies, but they are often harmful to people and the environment.
“We use so many electronic devices every day that it is very important to dispose of them properly,” said Shelby Lewis, Tampa City Recycling Coordinator.
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That’s why the city of Tampa is urging people to recycle old technology the right way. The city has a downloadable app that lists drop-off locations and the types of technology accepted. One such spot is McDonald’s Training Center, a non-profit organization that helps adults with disabilities.
“We accept all electronics and all we can do is refurbish and repair them,” said Christa Wright, director of the center’s certificate program.
They call it a win-win because old technology and batteries will not end up in landfills and people will get hands-on vocational training.
“They don’t have to throw away their electronics, they can give back to their communities in a responsible way,” says Wright.
