Why you need to recycle your old technology

Getting the most out of your laptops and hardware is vital for charities to be able to carry out their work effectively. Slower load times, sticky keys, systems overheating, and being unable to support new apps and software are all signs that your devices might be out of date, and all are challenges when trying to keep a charity running smoothly. 

What’s more, an out-of-date laptop can also pose a cyber security risk if it does not support newer versions of your cyber security software or the operating system is no longer updated by the manufacturer. These leave your laptop open to vulnerabilities that cyber criminals can exploit, much like holes in a fence.  

Below, we talk you through the options when it comes to replacing your old technology, from donating it to a good cause to recycling it. 

First step: erase your data 

When disposing of old technology, you need to ensure you erase your data before doing anything. There are different ways of doing this, from wiping your hard drive to restoring smart devices to factory settings, but it is your responsibility to make sure your data remains safe. You can find more help in this article.  

Once your data is erased, it’s time to think about what to do with the device itself. In such climate conscious times, throwing it in landfill is less than desirable. Here’s what else you can do to help your laptop avoid that fate.  

Take it to a retailer 

Thanks to the Electrical Retailer Buy-Back scheme, when you buy new technology, you can take in your old device to be recycled, too. The product you’re recycling doesn’t need to have been bought from that shop originally. All you need to do is bring in the old product within 28 days of purchasing your new one and the store will do the hard part for you.  

Different retailers have slightly different rules when it comes to recycling old products, so it’s worth checking them out before you try. Bigger stores like Currys PC World will accept any old technology for recycling, regardless of you making a purchase there.  

Dell allows people to recycle any Dell product with no purchase necessary, regardless of where it was bought. If you have just purchased technology through Dell, they will also recycle old technology from any manufacturer.  All you need to do is complete the online application form and package the item ready for shipping. And, again, make sure to remove any sensitive data before you ship it.  

Try your council 

In order to recycle your technology, you need to remove any batteries, cables, and memory cards, and make sure you back up and – we’re mentioning it again because it’s important – delete your data.  

After that, you’re ready to go. Your local council may be able to collect and recycle small electrical goods or batteries, and even if they cannot collect, they may run recycling centres that are able to accept your old devices.  

Westminster Council, for example, provides a list of what can be put in their small appliance recycling banks, including phones, chargers, keyboards, mice, and speakers. Most councils will have similar information available on their websites so you can check what they accept and the rules required.  

There are more than 2,500 drop-off points across the UK that can recycle everything safely – you can use this Recycling Locator from Recycle Your Electricals to find out where they are and how they can help.  

Donate your technology 

Much of the technology we replace still works, even if it does not still work for you – perhaps you simply need more memory or just want something new. In that case, there are lots of different charities who can take your old tech off your hands and recycle it for their own use or that of their beneficiaries.  

For example, Reuse Network aims to tackle poverty by taking second-hand items and donating them to low-income families. Circular Communities Scotland represents more than 200 recycling or repair organisations who can save valuable resources from going to landfill. WeeeCharity also collect donations of electrical and electronic items, that they reuse, recycle, or resell back into the community. 

By donating to one of these organisations, you can reduce what goes into landfill, help others in need of good technology, and save the environment at the same time. 

Some charity shops also take electrical goods, including laptops, but it’s worth remembering that donating here is only really a good option if the item is still in fair working condition. It may no longer suit your needs, but may still be functional for others. The Recycle Your Electricals website has a handy list of charities that may accept electrical donations, but if in doubt, get in contact to check.  

Replace your old tech 

Once you’ve recycled your old tech, now it’s time to start replacing your devices. It’s no mean feat, with four in ten charities telling the 2022 Charity Digital Skills report they need funding for devices, software, and infrastructure.

Helpfully, charities can get discounted technology through the Charity Digital Exchange with up to 20% off Dell laptops, desktops, and accessories.  

Investing in your tech now will pay dividends in the future, helping your employees be more productive, happier (poor performing equipment can be a source of deep frustration), and ultimately, more protected online.