An Earth Week electronic waste collection event will take place at four Avon Maitland District schools between April 15 to 19.
Student Senate Vice-President Nathan Bean stated they decided to make e-waste their focus this year, so they organized the event.
"We're having four high schools in the board participate, and the students and staff can come in any time throughout the day to drop off their items," Bean pointed out. "And then on that final day, April 19, from 9 to 3, we're opening up to community members so we will have a bin outside Stratford District Secondary School, Listowel District Secondary school, South Huron District High School, and Central Huron Secondary School."
Bins for the community collection will be placed in front of the schools near the main doors. Community members will be able to drive up and drop their items in the bin.
Bean said education is also one of the reasons they started working on the initiative.
"We realized that a lot of people find it challenging to recycle their E waste, specifically batteries as well. It's something you have to take time out of your day. You might have to go for a drive somewhere," he explained. "There's not a whole lot of information known about it. And it's just a lot of work. So we decided you know what, let's find a way to make it a bit more simple and help people out."
He outlined some of the items eligible for drop off.
"Even an old printer counts. So computers, laptops, phones, charging cables, batteries is a big one. So any type of battery you have can be dropped off in the bins," he explained "And for anyone who's concerned about data and their privacy, the company that's taking the E waste, Greentec, has assured us that the bins are secure and that all the data will be wiped and there should be no privacy concerns for everyone."
He added Greentec is a big reason the project is possible.
"And Greentec has been our partner throughout this process. They are covering 100 per cent of the collection and recycling costs," revealed Bean. "So we really appreciate their assistance with this project."
Bean encouraged residents to get involved.
"And the idea is that not only can people empty their old phone drawer, but they can also help preserve our natural resources by recycling resources that are already in use, gold or silver or anything like that technology, instead of spending money and resources to go mine more," he continued.