Here’s the thing: In California, you already pay a fee to recycle any device with a screen larger than 4 inches. You pay this when you buy your electronic device. So if you end up tossing it in a landfill, you lose the money that you already paid to recycle it. On the same note, you shouldn’t have to pay a second time when you go to recycle your item.

The system may need to be revised, but e-waste laws are vital. They provide recyclers with the money to recycle responsibly. Now, some still go the cheaper route and export the items overseas. Others will do the right thing and refurbish/resell/ recycle the equipment properly.

A great company I’ve found in California is All Green Electronics Recycling (if you’re curious, the website is: http://allgreenrecycling.com). They have a lot of drop-off locations and host events. The best part is, they’ll recycle them responsibly and for free.