Electronic waste (e-waste) are everyday electronic products that are discarded. These products comprise toxic metals and hazardous chemicals which can harm the environment. Easier and cheaper access to technology has made us susceptible to producing e-waste.

54 million metric tons of e-waste was generated worldwide in 2019 alone, according to Statista. This number is expected to increase to 57 million tonnes this year. It is a global challenge to manage and dispose of e-waste properly but we can help by starting in our own homes.

Here are five simple tips to manage e-waste at home:

1. Spread awareness
   Education and awareness is the first step to finding resolution to any problem. Without it, people cannot understand the significance of reducing e-waste. So, educate your family and friends then maybe you can influence them to carry on the advocacy.
2. Buy only what you need.
   Try secondhand items; evaluate your needs. If you do not need to buy a new oven or if your refrigerator is still working, keep using it. Maybe you think you need to upgrade your phone, but do you really have to? Think ahead before you make a decision. It will not only save the environment, it will also save you time and money.

   But if you really need to get a new item, try buying secondhand. Garage sales, whether from your neighbor or from Korean and Japanese Surplus, have an array of great deals. Most of their items are not abused plus you can always bargain. By the way, try not to hoard as well.

3. Organize your devices

   Put your phones and chargers in a safe place where you can always find it. Include any other cables too. In this way, you will not risk losing your devices. How many times have you misplaced a cable/charger and bought a new one only to find the old gadget under your bed?

Also, designating a safe storage for your devices will extend its life. You will not have to worry about your dog chewing it or accidentally stepping on it one day. And if any of your electronics get damaged, try to have it repaired first.

4.Donate your unused items

If you do not need your electronics, donate it. If you bought a new phone, you can give your old phone to a student who is struggling to join online classes. Maybe a relative or a friend can benefit from your old stove if you decide to buy a new one.

You can also look for institutions or organizations that accept donations in general. Your old electronics might just answer a fire victim’s prayer.

5.Sell your old electronics
There are local repair shops that buy damaged or destroyed devices. They either repair to sell it again or recycle the parts. You can look for them in your area. But if you want to upgrade your electronics, you can sell the old one. Second hand laptops and phones are quite in demand.

If you are practicing to reduce your e-waste already please continue. If not, it’s never too late. We only have one earth, so let’s take care of it.