What to do with your old tech

As technology continues to advance, it’s easy to find ourselves with a collection of old phones, tablets and computers gathering dust.

Rather than letting these devices  take up space, why not give them a new lease on life?

If your old gadget still works, consider donating it. Many local charities, community centres and schools are happy to accept functional devices.

Your old computer or tablet could be a lifeline for someone who needs it but can’t afford a new one.

If donating isn’t an option, there  are plenty of ways to repurpose your  old devices. Turn an old smartphone into a backup phone, a music player for your car, or even a digital photo frame to display your favourite memories.

Tablets can be set up as dedicated e-readers or used as kitchen helpers for looking up recipes. Giving your tech a second life is a great way to reduce waste and help others.

However, if your device has truly reached the end of its life, it’s important to recycle it responsibly. E-waste, which includes old electronics such as phones and laptops, contains hazardous materials that can harm the environment if not disposed of correctly.

Before you drop off any old device for recycling or donation, make sure to securely erase all personal data. This is a critical step to protect your privacy and prevent any chance of identity theft.

For computers, this typically involves performing a factory reset and deleting all files. Smartphones and tablets should be reset to factory settings, and any cloud accounts should be signed out of.

Batteries – one common mistake is throwing used batteries directly in the bin. Batteries can be hazardous when disposed of improperly. They can leak toxic chemicals and even cause fires in bins or garbage trucks. Instead, put electrical tape on the ends of your used batteries and take them to a Bunnings store for recycling. Bunnings has a dedicated battery recycling program, making it a safe and convenient option.

Printer cartridges – these can’t be tossed in the regular bin. Fortunately, recycling them is easy. The Cartridges 4 Planet Ark program allows you to drop off used cartridges at participating stores such as Officeworks and Australia Post. These collection points ensure that cartridges are recycled properly, reducing environmental impact. You can search your nearest one online.

If all of this sounds a bit confusing, don’t worry. Greyology can assist you with securely wiping your data, determining if your device can be repurposed, and guiding you to the best recycling options.

Whether it’s an old phone, a  tired laptop, or even a stack of printer cartridges, we’ll make sure it’s  handled responsibly.

By taking a little time to donate, repurpose, or recycle your old tech, you’re not only clearing out clutter but also doing your part to protect the environment. It’s a win-win.

 Edin Read is founder and chief technician at Greyology Tech Support for Seniors. Visit greyology.com.au

Where to recycle your items safely

IF YOU’RE ready to part with your old gadgets, Brisbane has several reliable options for recycling:

1. E-Waste Connection: this facility offers dedicated e-waste recycling at locations including: Kenmore: 98 Brookfield Road; Yeronga: 167 Hyde Road; and North Booval: 83 Oxford Street. A wide range of electronics is accepted, making it easy for you to drop off old computers, phones and other small devices.
2. Brisbane City Council Recycling Centres: they accept various items, including old computers, monitors and tablets.

The Sunshine Coast Council website states that e-waste including printers, televisions, scanners, video game consoles, computers, laptops and monitors, multi-function devices and computer peripherals (keyboard, mouse, disc drives, web cameras, game pads, electrical transformers or motherboards) can be disposed of at any council waste facility for free to be recycled.