Q.  I’ve recently learned that e-waste can still harm the environment, even if it is recycled. How do we make sure that doesn’t happen to the e-waste we collect here at Wake Forest?
A. Good question. It is true that some e-waste recyclers take short-cuts and that mishandled e-waste can have a devastating impact on the health and well-being of our planet. That is why we only choose e-waste recyclers who are transparent enough for us to verify their entire chain of custody, starting from when they take possession of our e-waste.

Piedmont E-Waste handles most of the personal e-waste generated by our campus community (old cell phones, CDs, key boards, cords, chargers, old TV monitors, microwaves, etc.). Goodwill Industries recycles our ink and toner cartridges.  All technology belonging to Wake Forest (such as Think Pads computers) should be returned by submitting an online service request for surplus pickup.

The Office of Waste Reduction and Recycling only enters into contracts with e-waste recyclers after thoroughly vetting their chain of custody. In addition, the OWRR considers the impact of the contract on the local economy and whether a company illustrates corporate social responsibility. Piedmont E-waste is a local business and Goodwill Industries is a nonprofit offering multiple services to the community, including English language classes and vocational training.

To find out how and where to dispose of e-waste, check out a past FAQ on e-waste disposal.

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