DIY Life

In today's digitally-saturated world, nearly everyone owns at least one big-ticket electronic device: cell phone, iPod, laptop, desktop computer, printer, digital camera, game system, and others. As these devices become obsolete and are replaced by newer, faster models, we find ourselves stockpiling more and more expensive paperweights.

What is a responsible digital addict to do? You could just dump them in the trash, or take them apart for spare parts, but if you're concerned about what might happen to your once-precious toy as it degrades in a nearby landfill, here are a few resources that will point you in the right direction.

The first thing you should do when getting rid of an old electronic device is turn to your local yellow pages. Many cities have businesses and charities that will gladly take your old devices and dispose of them properly. Also, several big box electronics retailers, such as Best Buy, Staples, and Office Depot, will happily collect your discarded toys in their in-store recycling kiosks.

If you have brand-specific items you'd like to recycle, try some of these links:

• Apple
• Cingular (now AT&T)
• Dell
• HP
• Intel
• Lexmark
• NEC
• Panasonic
• Sharp
• Sony

If you're feeling generous, WirelessRecycling.com will take your cellphone and donate it to a charity, or if you'd like to make a little bit of money (emphasis on the little), you can sell your old devices to Beyond the Pod. If you still can't find a resource that works for you, try the EPA's eCycling website. They have a ton of resources, as well as contact information that will help you dispose of your electronics responsibly. And if none of that floats you boat, just turn that old piece of junk into art!