When it comes to safe and efficient e-waste recycling, you need a company that understands what it takes to turn old electronics into valuable components. E-waste recycling is actually more difficult than it might sound as there are multiple processes involved.

For example, a single computer may contain a combination of circuit boards, cables, hard drives, metal frames, and plastics. Getting the most value from this item will require a strategic disassembly process and knowing which parts can actually be used in the market.

Interestingly, many e-waste recycling companies are unable to remain functional because they can't identify the perfect balance between recycling, re-using and disposal. If you're looking to safely manage your e-waste with the help of a recycling partner, here are 4 important qualities to look for.    

1.    Keeping your data safe

Many people avoid recycling their e-waste because of data security concerns. Indeed, even an old computer ending up in the wrong hands could be used to retrieve personal or business data. To prevent this risk, you need an e-waste recycling partner that pays attention to data safety.

Make sure the company can securely and effectively destroy components that may house sensitive data. Even after deleting information from your hard drive, there are cases where such data could still be recovered. This is why data destruction is an important service to have through your e-waste recycling partner.

2.    Efficient recovery of assets

The whole point behind e-waste recycling is to derive as much value from old assets as possible. This means that your old smart phone screen, TV cables, hard drives, computer monitors, and much more should be recovered and reused in new electronics.

Getting lots of value from old electronics will require a strategic recycling process. The company you work with should be able to identify what's useful and what simply needs to end up in a landfill. Effectively identifying assets will involve extensive expertise with electronics, knowledge of safety regulations, being aware of manufacturer preferences, and staying within established government regulations.     

3.    Highly trained staff

Effective e-waste recycling will depend on how well the company's staff is trained. Workers should be aware of how to best dismantle many different items while recycling valuable components. Workers should also know how to handle, store, and dispose of various components within multiple electronic pieces.

Working with a company that has qualified staff will allow you to spend less and get more value from your e-waste.

4.    Safe disposal of unused parts   Unfortunately, not all components of an old electronic device can be reused. Some may have to be safely packaged and taken to disposal sites such as landfills. Make sure your e-waste recycling partner has a process in place to safely dispose of such items.