Reduce Dealing with outdated tech

Technology evolves quickly and even the latest and greatest devices such as phones, computers and tablets eventually become obsolete. This article runs through some of the options available to help you deal with old devices safely, and in a pocket and planet friendly way.

Can you breathe new life into your device?

Your older device might not offer the very latest functionality, it might not work at all. However, if it can be repaired and / or upgraded, keeping it could be a cheaper and more environmentally friendly option to replacing it.

Servicing, repairing or upgrading your existing tech can keep it working better for longer, and is often cheaper than buying a new device.

🛠️ A battery replacement, memory upgrade, or software reset could breathe new life into your device.
🧰 Local repair services and community fix-it groups might be able to help advise on repairs and upgrades that make good financial sense.

• Check our reuse map to find details of local groups who can offer advice.
• Online resources such as iFixit offer repair and upgrade guides for a wide range of devices.

Could you rehome your old devices?

Even if you don’t have a use for them any longer, your old devices likely still have some value to someone else.

It’s never been easier to sell your unwanted technology and there are lots of shops and websites allowing you to sell or trade in unwanted devices and generate a bit of income. Recycle your electricals have a guide to selling your electricals and list various resale platforms: https://www.recycleyourelectricals.org.uk/sell-second-hand-electronics/

Numerous charitable organisations also gladly accept unwanted tech donations, either to sell on, or for refurbish and pass on to people in need of devices. You’ll find a list of charities that accept donations at: https://www.recycleyourelectricals.org.uk/donate-electrical-goods/

⚠️ If your device isn’t fixable or upgradeable

If your device is broken and beyond repair, disposing of it is likely the best option.

Although it might be tempting, electrical items should never be placed in your household waste or recycling bins as it’s unsafe, and means that the precious materials they contain won’t be recycled.

• Device batteries often contain lithium, which can cause fires if stored or disposed of incorrectly.
• Electrical items contain critical metals that can be recycled and reused — but only if they’re handled properly.

If you’re disposing of old tech, follow these steps to do it safely and responsibly:

• Use dedicated collection points to safely dispose of anything with a plug, battery or cable (that includes cables and batteries).
• Find your nearest collection point at: https://www.recycleyourelectricals.org.uk/
• Use a bag or box to collect all electrical items you want to recycle together, to save you making unnecessary journeys

🔐 Deal with data on your old devices

Before you pass on or recycle your tech, you might want to :

1. Back up and remove personal data
   Guidance is available at Recycle Your Electricals: https://www.recycleyourelectricals.org.uk/how-do-i-delete-my-data/
2. If selling online and posting an item consider how you’ll safely package them so they arrive with the buyer in good condition. Reuse packaging wherever possible.
3. If recycling instead, bring the device and any unwanted accessories (batteries, chargers or cables) to your nearest dedicated drop-off location

📍 Find your nearest collection point at Recycle Your Electricals: https://www.recycleyourelectricals.org.uk/