Many old computers are languishing in cupboards, and many more are thrown away, despite having a long life left in them. With electronic waste becoming an increasing problem, finding a solution for unwanted technology has never been more important, recycling helps to keep valuable technology out of landfill, by refurbishing, reusing and recycling.
Responsibly disposing of old computers can also help you to recover some of your original investment, especially with our competitive prices here at Mac-Recycle.

Now why is electronic waste a problem?

Electronic waste or e-waste is the term used to describe unwanted computers, smartphones, tablets and other electrical equipment. Unlike other forms of domestic rubbish, electrical devices typically contain a complex mix of materials such as aluminium, copper, plastics and electronics. Some devices also contain potentially harmful substances which must be disposed of carefully such as the batteries which can become extreme fire hazards of ever damaged.

Incorrect disposal of electronics means that valuable materials can be lost, and hazardous materials can be put in the hands of people unprepared to deal with them. The UK’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations are designed to reduce the amount of electronic waste going to landfill, by encouraging its recovery and reuse.

Recycling the materials in old computers is part of the solution to the e-waste problem, but an even better way to deal with old technology is to keep it in active use for as long as possible. One of the best ways to avoid having to deal with old computers in landfill is to ensure that they are still in use. Many Macs which are no longer suitable for their original owner may still have a long life left in them, if given to somebody else. A business with new office computers, for example, may have a stockpile of Mac devices which are still perfectly capable of doing the job they were designed for as opposed to ending up as redundant equipment in a cupboard.

At Mac Recycle, we assess the devices we receive to see if they can be put back into active use, and suitable computers can then be listed for sale once again, but at a reduced price.
By ensuring old computers are extended, we cut the need for new manufacturing -a lot of work has gone into its production, raw materials have to be mined or harvested, components manufactured, and the finished product assembled and delivered to its destination. These processes all have an environmental impact. When an old Mac is refurbished and reused, rather than being replaced by another newly-manufactured computer, we reduce the strain on the environment.
Consider a business which replaces all of its 50 MacBooks: if these are simply thrown away, the opportunity for them to have another life is lost, but if they are traded in and refurbished, they could still serve another business, student or home user thus extending the life of old technology is a great way to reduce the environmental impact of the technology industry.

We do recognise however that not all Mac computers are reusable, and some devices arrive in such a bad condition that they are not worth repairing. Despite this, it does not necessarily mean that they should end up in landfill. Some of the materials used in a Mac computer are valuable to recover, and can be recycled or repurposed if treated correctly. For example: Aluminium from computer casings can be recovered and recycled Copper and other metals can be extracted by appropriate recycling processes. Working components may be reused in other devices or systems. Batteries and other hazardous components can be disposed of in specialist recycling centres. At Mac-Recycle, we always aim to refurbish devices wherever possible: when it is not economically viable, we ensure that materials are recovered through our trusted recycling partners.
At Mac Recycle, we work with businesses to sell their surplus Apple or Windows computers and other technology equipment. Through our bulk trade-in service, organisations can receive a valuation for their equipment, schedule a collection (where appropriate), and recover some of the value from devices they no longer require. Our bulk trade-in service also includes certified data erasure, to keep businesses’ data secure. Incorporating a trade-in service means that businesses can ensure that their redundant IT equipment is not left to rot, and that they recoup some of the value from the computers which they no longer require.

individuals keep old technology devices in their cupboards and drawers; it is often because they do not realise what they could be worth. An old MacBook or iMac might still be worth selling, depending on its age and condition. Trading in your unwanted Mac gives you a financial incentive to put your old technology back into active use, rather than storing it or throwing it away. At Mac Recycle, you can use our online valuation tool to see what your old Mac could be worth: once your device has been received, inspected and approved, payment can be arranged. Even if a device does not have any resale value, it can still be disposed of responsibly, to keep materials out of landfill.
At Mac Recycle, we will securely erase any devices we resell or recycle: we also offer certified data erasure to customers who require documented proof that their data has been wiped from a device. This means that you can dispose of your old technology without forgetting the crucial step of protecting your personal data.

How to recycle your Mac with Mac Recycle?

We have made the process of selling your unwanted Apple computers as simple as possible:

1. Get an instant quote at: Mac Recycle and choose your device. You can see what your old MacBook, iMac or other Apple computer could be worth, by entering its specification and condition.
2. Send us your Mac. Use the information we give you with your quote to arrange posting, collection or drop-off of your device.
3. We inspect and securely erase your device. Our technicians will assess your Mac to see if it can be given a second life: we will then securely erase its contents, ready for reuse or recycling.
4. Receive your payment. Once your Mac has been checked, and its final valuation agreed, we will arrange payment.
5. Your Mac gets a second life. Whenever possible, your device will be refurbished and put back into use: devices which cannot be reused will be put to good use as recycled materials.

Small steps have a big impact. Keeping technology out of landfill does not always mean that computers are kept in use forever: sometimes, it is necessary to upgrade your device, as your Mac may no longer be able to run the applications you need, or to meet the demands of your business. What is important is what happens to your old Mac after you have bought a new one. Choosing to trade your old device in, rather than leave it in your cupboard or throw it away, means that it can be given a second life, and its materials can be recovered.
Find out what your old Apple devices are worth, and recycle your unwanted computers responsibly with our easy trade-in service. Don’t let your old Mac gather dust: give it a second life today! Visit mac-recycle.com to get an instant quote and turn your unwanted technology into cash.