Libraries in Devon Tackle Tech Waste And Fight Digital Poverty.
Five new electronics and tech donation points are launching in libraries across Devon. People will be able to bring tech items they no longer use to be refurbished. Once refurbished, items are donated to those experiencing digital poverty.
Libraries Unlimited, in partnership with Fixy, Resource Futures, and Donate IT, is bringing the donation programme into libraries. Part of Libraries Unlimited’s National Lottery-funded, ‘Together For Tomorrow’ climate action project, the initiative aims to reduce electronic waste and tackle the lack of access to technology in local communities.
Over 100,000 tonnes of electricals are thrown away each year, according to Material Focus. Electronic waste is hazardous for people and the planet. With binned electronic devices identified as a leading cause of fire in UK recycling and household waste, libraries are inviting the public to rethink the way they dispose of unwanted tech. The new Fixy donation points will be launching in five Devon libraries over the spring and summer.
Barnstaple Library launches on July 18th, 11 am – 1 pm.
“Fixy is delighted to be working with several library trials in Devon,” says Linda Hull, project coordinator at Resource Futures. “Closing the digital divide and tackling the ever increasing e-waste mountain has never been more important. We know that most people have a ‘Drawer of Doom’ stashed with pre-loved smart tech. Not only do we need to liberate all these hoarded precious metals, but once all these devices are securely data wiped, many can be refurbished and given back out free of charge to those in digital need in our communities.It’s win win!”
Items accepted at ‘Fixy’ donation points are:
Mobile phones and smartphones.
Laptops (must be unlocked).
Tablets (must be unlocked).
PCs, desktops and towers.
PC combo unit.
Digital cameras.
Routers.
Games consoles, computer games, controllers, and accessories.
Hard drives.
Freeview recorders.
External hard drives.
Smart speakers.
Smart tech and smart devices.
Smart wearables and smart watches.
Donation points cannot accept:
TVs, screens, displays or monitors.
Keyboards and mice.
Plug-in telephones.
Printers, scanners or photocopiers.
Tapes, discs, CDs, or DVDs.
Non-tech small electricals.
Loose batteries.
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