We now live in an entirely different world where electronics have become a vital gadget for daily survival. Who could function properly without a mobile phone at hand, or a laptop in tow? Unfortunately, technology also changes rapidly, and for many of us, this means purchasing new gadgets and gizmos on a regular basis.

So what do you do with your old ones, and those that are no longer functioning? We have the tendency to push old gadgets, whether still usable or not, into the trash bin. But do you know that there are many issues associated with disposing them via the garbage collector?

First, the more garbage we trash, the bigger is the area for a landfill needed. A lot of places are now facing the problem with landfill shortages, along with the problems in managing the wastes. Secondly, electronics may contain toxic materials that can be harmful when not handled properly. This could interfere with the water quality in our water tables and cause more pollution to our air. In general, electronic parts, even small ones may contribute greatly to pollution to the environment.

The good news is, most electronic parts are recyclable and can be re-used in a lot of ways. So, the fast production and trashing of electronic gadgets may no longer be the problem if garbage is managed wisely.

Among those at the forefront in garbage management and recycling is the electronic product manufacturer Apple. But in order to fulfill their role, they need the full cooperation of the consumers, and that is YOU. So, what do you do with your soon to be discarded iPhone or iPod?

If your Apple gadget is still functional but you are scheduled to replace it with a newer model, consider giving it to somebody who can better make use of the gadget rather than let it stay in one corner and gather dust, or worse, tossing it into the trash bin. You can also consider selling it to friends on a neighborhood garage sale or on eBay.

If your Apple gadget is no longer usable or needs repair, Apple has a recycling program that can help you. They even accept none Apple mobile phones such as Nokia, Samsung, Motorola and other brands. You can drop off your defective unit at any Apple Store in your neighborhood. They can even give you a discount on a new purchase for bringing in your old, defective unit to them.

If there is no Apple store near you, you can fill out a form on their website and they will send you a prepaid shipping label and packaging materials for your unit. It is a hundred percent free and the service is available in all 50 states.

Apple has a solid reputation of effectiveness in recycling. It has recycled 83 million pounds of electronic waste since they started on a massive recycling program in 1994. So you can be assured that you trash is well taken cared of when sent to Apple, and do away with the guilt feelings of being among those who contributed to more pollution.