How to choose a recycling vendor
Overview
Choosing a recycling vendor to work with is a very important task. New Free Geeks(or anyone wanting to recycle electronics) must take great caution as the electronics recycling industry is plagued with unethical businesses. Keep this thought in the back of your head at all times:
"Do not trust recyclers"
Historically we can see that all recycling industries have proven to be quick money grabs, often unchecked by government bodies until things are too out of hand.
There are some methods which can help people choose a recycler who will at least do things in the best manner possible. This article will look at them.
Attitude
A lot of people think they need to humble themselves before a recycler, or feel lucky that someone would actually take all this old broken stuff. Often someone representing Free Geek will be calling up a large corporate type company and it can be intimidating. One must remember that you are a customer, and one that could potential bring that vendor a lot of product and ultimately more money. You are in the drivers seat, make sure the vendor knows that from call one. Also remember that in time if a good working relationship grows, any for-profit vendor will want to use their work with a Free Geek to make themselves look better. Again, you are in the drivers seat. Be confident, know your facts, know the issues, don't back down or give up from a rough first call.
Attitude is important when it comes to asking the tough questions. Some recyclers will take offense and say things like "if you don't trust us go somewhere else", or "that information is a trade secret" or "why would I tell you that information, you'll just go to the people I sell to". Do not let these comments throw you off track, and they are tell tale signs of something fishy.
BAN
The Basel Action Network is a crucial source of information when it comes to picking recycling vendors. The first place any new or old Free Geek should look for recyclers is on their E-Steward list. It is still a good idea to call and grill these recyclers. Just because they are on the list doesn't mean we should trust them fully. BAN cannot keep tabs on them all the time. It is good practice to ask them all the tough questions too. Keep them on their toes.
Whats the BIG DEAL??
Ok so maybe you are thinking - "whoa this seems a bit heavy, it's recycling after all, it can't be that bad" Lets look at some issues here.