By: Enrico Benjamin

From phones and iPods to laptops and navigators, electronic gadgets and gizmos are universal accessories for most of us. And chances are this won’t change anytime soon. All the more reason for each of us to do our part in preventing last years must-have item from becoming fodder for landfills. A wide variety of responsible disposal options are available and one is bound to suit you.

RESELL

It may sound cliché, but the adage “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure” rings true when talking about technology. If the item is in good working condition, there’s no reason not to unload it for a few bucks.

Ebay is probably your best bet for trying making some money on a sale. If you’ve hung onto the original box and manuals, be sure to mention that in your auction post. If you bought accessories like holsters, cases or auto adapters, consider bundling them together for extra value.

Craigslist is another great way to go, especially if you’d rather sell locally to avoid shipping (and PayPal). Collecting cold hard cash is always nice, too.

If you aren’t as concerned about getting top dollar, several sites make it very easy to trade unwanted electronics for cash. Three of the biggest players are BuyMyTronics.com, Gazelle.com and TechForward.com. The sites have set prices for items, so it’s just a matter of finding your item on the list and filling out a form. They send you a box, you send the gear, they send you money. It’s a win-win situation. No fees and better than average prices make FlipSwap.com a popular outet for trading cell phones for cash.

RECYCLE

Many retailers like BestBuy, Walmart, Costco and Radio Shack have programs in place to help rid you of various electronics and batteries. They may charge you a small fee to cover disposal costs of larger or more hazardous items. If you have something they won’t take, they can often point you in the right direction.

Contact your mobile carrier or the maker of your cellular phone/computer to inquire about buyback and recycling programs. In these cases you may be offered money or a percentage off the price of a newer item.

The EPA has info on how you can recycle cellular phones, computers and televisions.

The U.S. Post Office is offering options for free recycling via mail in select locations. If this sounds appealing, I suggest you look into it sooner than later. Recent budget woes of the USPS could make this program short lived.

REGIFT

Can’t find a buyer? Just want the stuff gone? Yes, you still have options.

Most electronics will be welcome at your local Goodwill and several charity groups still collect working cell phones to give to soldiers and single mothers in transition. Chances are good there’s a Freecycle group in your area, too.

Unloading unwanted electronics doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, it can help you pay for your next must-have item. Hopefully one of these solutions will help you clear your closets and your conscience.

Enrico Benjamin is a television promotions producer in Seattle, WA.

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