An old computer. A cell phone that’s outdated. An mp3 player that doesn’t play anymore. Power cords, small appliances, a mouse. Gather it all together, and it’s called “e-waste.” Electronics are harmful to the environment due to their components and chemicals.

So how do you safely dispose of them?

(We’ll guess that you’ve already tried to sell them)

If they’re still useable, you can consider donating them.

Many schools, training programs and low-income families would appreciate your old technology. Make sure all your personal information is stripped from it first! Contact the ones in your area (including thrift shops). Some will even pick up!

Phone companies and police help shelters give cell phones to domestic abuse survivors. They’re programmed to dial 911. Many public schools will accept used phones (and chargers) for donation. Or check with your local shelter or police department.

Freecycle is a grassroots and nonprofit network of people who are giving (and getting) stuff for free in their own towns. It’s all about reuse and keeping good stuff out of landfills. Each local group is moderated by local volunteers. Membership is free. To sign up, find your community on the site.

If you’re crafty, you can make something out of them.

A model of the USS Enterprise made of an upcycled computer hard drive by Daniel Shankalonian on Etsy (no affiliation)

A trend right now is “upcycling,” or making something new and cool out of what might otherwise be junk. The Internet is full of clever people making clever things. Are you one of them?

If all else fails, you can recycle them

Our friends at Earth911 have a great search engine that will help you find the right recycling center for what you have, and where you are, as well as other alternatives that you might not have considered.