If you can't reuse them or find someone else who will use them, take your old wires and cables to the nearest
If you're one of the many with old wires and similar items lying around, don't just toss them in the garbage. Like old electronic devices, chargers, wires, and cables are still classified as e-waste that must be handled carefully when it's time to get rid of it.
Donation: If the cords are still in good condition, consider donating them to local charities, schools, or community centers that may have use for them. Proper Disposal: If recycling isn't an option, ensure that you dispose of the cords properly to minimize environmental impact. Avoid throwing them in regular trash.
That means if the cords are frayed or don't work, please don't give someone your trash. If you just want to get rid of them, consider recycling them. There are some electronics stores that take these types of items for recycling, including Best Buy, so consider dropping the cords off there.
(Which, to be clear, isn't recommended. Apple says it has a “robust” recycling program where you can bring in used chargers and cables. You can also look for a local e-waste recycling center or Best Buy store for environmentally friendly options.)
Anything with a plug, battery or cable can be recycled – and most of the materials in them can be made into new products.
One of the easiest ways to recycle any old electronics, including cables and chargers, is through Best Buy.
Before you head to your local e-waste recycler, be sure to give them a call and verify they will accept power cords on their own. Some facilities will only them when they come attached to a device that you're recycling, such as a desktop computer.
Sometimes we pay little attention to proper handling and storage with cables and wires. Coaxial cables are prone to breaking and going bad. That's why it's important to intentionally take care of them and check your wires for the most common ways they can get damaged.
Copper is the most common metal found in electrical cables, being one of the most conductive metals. Take a cable apart and you will find it consists of many strands of copper wire interwoven. Plus, there is more copper being recycled than new copper being mined, so selling your scrap cable is the green thing to do.
Bundle Cords Behind Furniture
To keep a long electrical cord in a neat loop tucked behind furniture or on the side of a dresser or credenza, order a set of cord bundlers. The adhesive backing holds these organizers in place, so all you have to do is select a spot that's out of sight.
Electronics Recycling
Ask store associate for tech recycling box, fill the box with acceptable items, and bring box unsealed to store. Televisions are not accepted. Recycle small electronic items such as cell phones, MP3 players, rechargeable batteries, and printer cartridges in store for free.
Regularly check cords for any sign of exterior damage including cracks, nicks, cuts, or frays. If the protective coating is damaged in any way, it's time to replace it. If you notice damage to an extension cord, don't try to repair it – throw it out.
Many recycling centers accept electronics for proper disposal and/or recycling of materials. Cohen offers e-waste recycling services that cover old laptop chargers, phones and other electronic products.
All cables contain copper, a valuable material, making them suitable for recycling. Many standard cable plastics can be recycled too, although some may pose challenges due to the presence of additives.
Most of the metal recycling centers will accept old wires and cables for the copper inside them. Some might accept only the metal wire, in which case you'd need to remove the plastic covering/insulation first. You could also sell to electrical liquidators.
Depending on the type of direct burial wire and application, there are various rules to prevent accidents. Underground Feeder (UF) cable must be buried at least 24 inches underground. Meanwhile, PVC conduit only has to be buried 12 inches underground.
Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Max and others let you watch shows on-demand -- often the same shows you're using your DVR to record. And live TV services such as YouTube TV and Sling TV offer a lot of on-demand shows, and you can often pause or even skip commercials.
The World Health Organization recommends that the umbilical cord not be clamped earlier than 1 minute after birth in term or preterm newborns. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists also recommends deferring umbilical cord clamping for healthy term and preterm infants for at least 2 minutes after birth.
We'll take it. We'll recycle your Apple devices, cables, cases, accessories, and other similar electronics for free. You'll help protect the earth's precious resources and reduce waste as we work toward a better future for the planet.
A few retailers, such as BestBuy and Staples, may offer free recycling services for flatscreen TVs. Some local recycling centers may also allow you to recycle for free. You can find free recycling center maps online. Finally, you can always donate a TV for free to an organization accepting electronics.
Retailing giant Best Buy (NYSE: BBY) has seen its recycling take-back program grow from a costly gamble into a fast-growing business that's making a little bit of money. “It's profitable. But just barely,” said Leo Raudys, senior director of environmental sustainability at Best Buy.