Gadgets aren’t made to last, we know it and our old-tech-packed drawers are starting to know it too…We spent so much on them, we have some great memories with them, sometimes even still personal photos, documents on them and let’s be honest we are not really sure what is the best way to get rid of them safely. Here is a quick guide to help you get started:

Getting rid of your old gadgets and components responsibly has a name: “E-waste management”. It is a rapidly growing industry which provides individuals and organizations with an opportunity to play their part in saving the environment. Many businesses and companies hire the services of reputable, reliable and qualified e-Scrap recyclers to ensure proper recycling of their office equipment and to be able to dutifully fulfill their corporate social responsibility.

You can do it as an individual too and here is how to start:

1. Your Municipality

Start by looking at your city’s official portal where you may find big initiatives. In Dubai for instance, the Municipality launched an application to support easy donation of your old devices. The app is called Taheel, it is available in English & Arabic and aims at collecting old tech that can be refurbished in order to then be donated to charities.

2. Websites

Look at websites that offer to buy your gadgets: http://sellanyphone.ae/ , http://www.recycleemirates.com , http://www.enviroserve.org

These guys offer you cash in exchange for your old tech, and even arrange to come pick up the items straight from your place.

3. Telecom Operators

Check with your mobile operator. Etisalat, for instance, will offer you a discount on new devices if you decide to trade in your old ones.

4. Retailers

Bring it back to where you bought it. Any Apple store will accept your old Apple tech and dispose of it on your behalf responsibly with their GiveBack program.

Plug-Ins have launched a GoGreen program and accept most of your old electronics in exchange for 20 aed vouchers.

Finally, some charities may also be interested but make sure to wipe off the content of your phone or laptop and prioritize charity for devices that are still working.