SAMR Inc. President, Albert Boufarah, Discusses What Every Company Should Know When Replacing Computers

Albert Boufarah has helped reduce the environmental impact of electronic waste by providing new and efficient solutions. Based in Lakewood, NJ and serving the entire northeast United States, Boufarah’s company, SAMR Inc., supports responsible methods of eliminating old technology.

How Does Electronic Waste Impact The Environment?

Recycling electronics protects the environment by preventing toxic substances from invading soil and water. Boufarah’s concern caused by the disregard of old computers, cell phones, and medical technology led him to establish SAMR Inc.

The components of many digital and analog devices are toxic. If these devices are tossed in a landfill, they will spread into the ground. This is especially true during hot weather or in especially humid environments. If electronic waste is left unattended in landfills during the hot summer months, toxic chemicals may be released into the air.

Electronic waste can cause air pollution and should not be categorized with other forms of trash. Instead of throwing away unusable devices, specialized centers exist for the proper handling of electronic waste.

What Counts As Electronic Waste?

Old computers are the most obvious electronic device that are often disregarded in business settings. Because of frequent updating and changes in software systems, the computer turnover rate is higher for companies than individuals.

Although computers are a valuable commodity in the workplace, other company devices can also be considered e-waste. Security cameras, photocopiers, printers, scanners, tablets, virtual assistants, projectors, routers, and certain thermostats are candidates for recycling.

Electronic waste is technically described as any electronic device that is no longer useful. This can include malfunctioning, damaged, or old devices. Even if a computer or tablet is still in working condition, it is considered e-waste once it’s discarded.

During recycling, a determination can be made that specific parts are reusable but not the entire item. Recycling a damaged computer, for example, may involve the removal of a hard drive, which can be used in a separate machine.

How To Get Rid Of Old Computers

Disposing of old electronics does not have to be complicated. The process is very straightforward with many current companies—the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has specific guidelines that must be followed to throw them away properly.

Companies like SAMR Inc. already comply with these guidelines and can help individuals unfamiliar with the process.

Both small and large companies may feel overwhelmed by the disposal process. For companies that rely on new technology, old computers can be inconvenient. IT departments that must eliminate several computers often require electronic waste companies to store and transfer old computers.

Research Recycling Programs

Recycling programs can vary depending on the state and individual company. Companies that do not follow the proper Environmental Protection Agency guidelines negatively impact the atmosphere and may not provide the adequate recycling process that many companies & organizations require. Finding the right program can help this process move smoothly and quickly while getting the job done.

Pack and Store Properly

Old electronics may be damaged. To prevent toxins from spreading, make sure to check for any potential leaks. Old and new laptops, tablets, and desktops can leak. Proper storage is essential if the company does not provide packaging services.

If an item is leaking, place it in a larger container. The device should not be wrapped in plastic or dropped in a bag. A sturdy box is best. Additional material to pack includes kitty litter or newspaper that can soak up the liquid.

Use Shredders

Businesses that do not have state-of-the-art shredders should use an electronic waste company. A professional shredder can destroy hard drives to secure privacy. This is especially important for businesses that have sensitive data stored on old computers.

For twenty years, Boufarah & SAMR Inc. have been helping small and large businesses securely recycle old computers. The company can provide a drop-off center for ease and availability. This is ideal for medical practices and IT companies.

Are Electronic Waste Companies Necessary?

Electronic waste companies make disposal easy for businesses and individuals. By handling electronic waste responsibly, information can be effectively erased.

Electronic devices have several harmful materials inside them. Some of these include mercury, beryllium, lead, brominated flame retardants, and arsenic. This is dangerous for both animals and humans. If these chemicals are not properly handled, they can potentially cause neurological damage and severe illness. Both individuals and communities can be negatively impacted by electronic waste.

Properly disposing of these devices allows businesses to purchase new equipment for their offices. With a significant amount of additional room, new computers can benefit a variety of industries. To responsibly recycle old computers and tablets, a trusted company like SAMR Inc. can help.

This article does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or the management of EconoTimes