eSmart Recycling is on a mission to close the digital divide, ensuring that everyone, no matter their background or circumstances, has equal access to technology. We believe no one should be left behind in our increasingly digital world. With the dedication of our team and the support of our partners, we tirelessly work to refurbish and repurpose donated electronic devices, making them accessible to those who can’t afford new ones. In doing so, we not only reduce electronic waste but also provide educational resources, job opportunities, and communication platforms to the underserved. At eSmart Recycling, we are committed to building a more inclusive and connected society, one recycled device at a time.
The digital divide is a pressing issue faced by many communities in today’s world. It’s the gap between those with access to cutting-edge technology and those without. This divide often stems from disparities in socioeconomic status, geographic location, and educational opportunities. Those lacking access to digital platforms can find themselves at a disadvantage when seeking educational resources, job opportunities, and communication tools. This lack of access can profoundly impact individuals and communities, hindering them from fully participating in the digital age. Closing the digital divide is crucial to reap the economic, social, and governmental benefits of digitization.
Right now, it’s imperative that we strive to address the Digital Divide. It’s an issue impacting communities both domestically and abroad. By facilitating access to digital platforms for the disadvantaged, we can help ensure that everyone has an equal shot at fully engaging in the digital era. Bridging the digital gap is also essential to harness the economic, social, and governmental advantages of going digital.
Both in our country and overseas, narrowing the digital divide is a top priority. Achieving this entails equitable access to reliable internet, mobile devices, and computer equipment. By investing in these resources, we can ensure all individuals have the capacity to fully embrace the digital age. Moreover, we also need to work on reducing the electronic waste generated from these resources, as they pose a significant threat to our environment. By doing so, we can pave the way for a more equitable and sustainable future for everyone.
The repercussions of the technological gap are far-reaching, affecting individuals, neighborhoods, and society as a whole. Those with access to technology reap numerous benefits, such as educational resources, job opportunities, and communication tools. In contrast, those without access fall behind, unable to leverage these benefits. This divide not only magnifies existing disparities but also hampers progress and achievements.
Bridging the gap through digital inclusion initiatives, like the efforts of eSmart Recycling, is crucial to level the playing field and ensure equal access to the benefits of technology. By offering affordable access to recycled technology, eSmart Recycling helps diminish the divide between tech haves and have-nots, positively impacting digital inclusion and empowering people and communities to thrive in our increasingly digital world.
The consequences of the tech gap extend beyond individual and economic implications. It also has significant implications for the societal and governmental aspects of our community. Limited tech access can lead to social marginalization, as those without it can’t fully engage in the digital realm. This isolation can result in limited social interaction opportunities and decreased access to essential services and data.
Furthermore, without equitable access to digital platforms, citizens might struggle to engage with government services and participate in democratic procedures. By addressing the tech divide, eSmart Recycling not only ensures equal access to technology but also fosters social cohesion and promotes democratic participation.
The impact of bridging the tech divide transcends individual empowerment, ultimately cultivating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
At eSmart Recycling, we are passionate about narrowing the gap between those with tech access and those without. Our aim is to provide recycled technology at an affordable price, ensuring everyone has equal opportunities to prosper in the digital age.
We are committed to addressing the issue of electronic waste and its environmental impact. By promoting reuse and recycling of electronic devices, we can close the gap and help preserve our planet.
Collaboration is key to our mission. We partner with educational institutions and non-profit organizations to identify and support those most at risk of being left behind.
At eSmart Recycling, we believe technology should be within everyone’s reach, regardless of their socioeconomic status. We strive to empower individuals and communities, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in the digital world.
As an organization committed to promoting equity and inclusion, at eSmart Recycling, we’ve launched various strategies aimed at bridging the gap between those with access to technology and those without. One of these initiatives is the refurbishment and reuse of donated electronic devices, enabling people from all walks of life to access recycled technology at an affordable price. Furthermore, the organization has collaborated with educational institutions and non-profit organizations to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this digital age.
Efficiently disposing of electronic waste is another crucial aspect of narrowing the digital divide. By reducing the environmental impact of electronic waste, eSmart Recycling can keep the associated production costs low and, in turn, offer more affordable options to those on the other side of the divide. This initiative is vital to ensure that no one is left out of the benefits technology can offer.
A core component of eSmart Recycling’s efforts to bridge the digital divide is its commitment to providing cost-effective access to recycled technology. By offering these devices at a lower price than their brand-new counterparts, they enable individuals with limited financial means to reap the benefits of technology. This aids in fostering a more equitable and inclusive society where everyone has the chance to leverage the advancements of the digital era.
Overall, eSmart Recycling plays a pivotal role in bridging the digital gap and promoting sustainability. Through initiatives like refurbishing and reusing donated electronic devices, partnering with educational institutions and non-profits, and the effective disposal of electronic waste, they ensure that everyone has the opportunity to capitalize on the benefits of technology. In doing so, they contribute to building a more equitable and inclusive society.
By partnering with educational institutions, non-profit organizations, government agencies, businesses, and tech companies, eSmart Recycling can expand access to recycled technology and bridge the gap between those with and without technological access. This not only helps reduce the digital divide but also empowers people from all backgrounds to thrive in the digital age. Thanks to their partnerships, eSmart Recycling can collect and refurbish a larger volume of donated electronic devices, making it more affordable for individuals to access the technology they need. Additionally, they collaborate with stakeholders to raise awareness about the importance of proper electronic waste management and create sustainable solutions to reduce it. To further their mission, eSmart Recycling encourages people to reach out to them with any questions.
eSmart Recycling’s partnerships are pivotal to its mission of bridging the digital divide and making technology more accessible. By partnering with educational institutions, non-profits, public agencies, businesses, and tech companies, they can expand their reach and offer more people access to recycled technology. These partnerships enable eSmart Recycling to collect and refurbish a larger volume of donated electronic devices, making technology more affordable for individuals. Simultaneously, they create a supportive and knowledgeable network to raise awareness of the importance of proper e-waste management and develop sustainable solutions to reduce electronic waste.
eSmart Recycling’s collaborations are crucial in narrowing the digital gap and providing affordable access to technology. By engaging with multiple stakeholders, they can reach a wider audience and ensure more people have an opportunity to access up-to-date technology. Through their partnerships, eSmart Recycling magnifies its impact and makes a significant difference in closing the digital divide. They encourage people to reach out with any inquiries or to learn more about their mission.
The advantages of e-waste management extend far beyond simply reducing landfill waste. At eSmart Recycling, we recognize the fundamental need for responsible e-waste handling, striving to positively influence both the environment and underserved communities. Our mission is to bridge the digital divide and provide access to environmentally friendly, sustainable technology.
A major benefit of e-waste management is natural resource conservation. Electronic devices contain valuable elements like gold, silver, and copper, as well as other precious materials such as rare earth metals. Recycling these items allows us to reclaim these materials, reducing the need for destructive mining practices. This safeguards Earth’s resources and diminishes the demand for new electronic devices, ultimately decreasing e-waste production.
Besides resource conservation, proper e-waste handling prevents the release of hazardous substances into the environment. Electronic devices often contain harmful materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can seep into soil and water if not managed correctly. Recycling these devices ensures these toxic substances are safely disposed of, minimizing contamination risks and potential harm to human health.
Additionally, e-waste management spurs economic opportunities and job creation. Recycling and refurbishing electronic devices require expertise, creating employment in the recycling sector. At eSmart Recycling, we’re not only dedicated to bridging the digital gap but also to supporting local communities by offering training and job opportunities in e-waste management. Investing in these initiatives not only aids in reducing e-waste but also bolsters local economies.
Education plays a vital role in ensuring equal access to technology for all and in diminishing the digital divide. At eSmart Recycling, we grasp the significance of education in closing this gap, committing to supplying tools and knowledge that empower individuals to proficiently use digital platforms. Through our initiatives, we enable educational institutions, students, and the Tampa Bay communities to access recycled technology and fully harness the digital age.
To bridge the digital gap, it’s crucial to dismantle educational barriers that prevent people from reaping technology benefits. Without the necessary digital skills and knowledge, individuals might struggle to navigate the online world. eSmart Recycling commits to offering training programs and workshops to educate Tampa Bay’s students and educators, allowing them to gain the confidence and expertise required to thrive in the digital realm.
By addressing the digital divide through education, we not only promote social equity but also unlock numerous opportunities. Equipping students with digital skills primes them for success in a digitally-centered world. Moreover, education can grant individuals access to online educational resources, job prospects, and communication platforms. eSmart Recycling’s initiatives aim to bridge this gap, providing affordable access to recycled technology ultimately leading to economic growth and innovation in Tampa Bay.
Bridging the technological divide is at the heart of eSmart Recycling’s mission. We’re committed to ensuring no one is left behind in the modern world and that everyone can leverage technology’s benefits, regardless of their financial standing. By offering recycled technology at an affordable rate, our commitment is to make technology accessible to all, ensuring everyone can enjoy the perks of digital tools. “Computers for Kids” embodies this principle in action.
At eSmart Recycling, we’re dedicated to narrowing the digital divide and ensuring everyone has equal access to technology. Our mission revolves around bridging the gap between those with technology access and those without. Through our initiatives and collaborations, we’re making a significant impact in providing affordable access to recycled technology. By responsibly managing e-waste and championing education, we’re not only benefiting the environment but also empowering individuals and communities. We firmly believe technology should be accessible to all, irrespective of their socioeconomic background.
Together, we can build a more inclusive and fair world where everyone benefits from technological advancements. Join our mission, and let’s create a future where no one is left behind in the digital age.
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When we collect old equipment from companies, we know that what appears to be a dusty storage closet can become something far greater: a fully equipped classroom, a connected community center, or a gateway to new opportunities. At eSmart Recycling, this is the mission we carry forward every single day.
From Tampa, we’ve been transforming tons of outdated technology into tools for learning and inclusion. This year alone, we’re processing about half a million pounds of electronics, keeping them out of landfills and extending their useful life.
We’ve donated more than 3,000 computers and devices to underserved communities, working alongside over 50 nonprofit organizations across five countries.
In Tampa Bay, we set up a full digital lab at the Salesian Boys and Girls Club (West Tampa), in partnership with BayFirst Bank. We’ve also collaborated with the Hillsborough Education Foundation, AMRoC FabLab, Pace Center for Girls, Hope For Her, and many other local nonprofits.
During a community laptop drive for the Boys & Girls Clubs, we collected 131 devices, at least 25 of which were reusable—each one a Windows 10 Pro machine ready for remote learning.
Through a partnership with the University of South Florida in St. Petersburg, we received 500 used computers to refurbish and distribute to community organizations, students, and adults in Pinellas County.
Our work doesn’t stop in the U.S. Through our alliance with the Nuestra America Foundation, we’ve delivered recycled devices to rural schools, community centers, and youth programs across Latin America. In one rural center, students who previously had no access to computers can now research online and connect with the wider world.
Recently, in Peru, we donated 30 refurbished computers to the Ronald McDonald House and Corazones Felices. As a result, a brand-new computer lab now serves around 70 children and teenagers, helping them develop their digital skills.
We’re driven by the belief that electronic recycling can truly close digital divides. In Tampa, we saw companies discarding thousands of perfectly functional computers at the same time nonprofits were struggling to provide technology to families in need. That disconnect inspired us to act.
Since 2016, we’ve created a model where every piece of equipment gets a second—and often better—life: as an educational tool in the hands of kids, families, and communities with limited access to technology.
Every time we pick up a device, we know we’re preventing e-waste while opening doors for students. What once sat forgotten in a closet now powers education, creativity, and connection. And when those screens light up, it’s not just the computers that come alive—it’s the future of the communities we serve.
Let’s be honest: recycling laptops, servers, or cellphones isn’t always top of mind for companies. And not because it’s unimportant, but because excuses always pop up. The truth? Most of them are easy to dismantle. Here are three of the most common ones—and how you can move past them without overcomplicating things.
The first reaction is usually: “This is going to cost a fortune and take weeks.” And yes, e-waste recycling does involve separating materials, handling toxic metals, and meeting regulations. It’s not something just any IT team can improvise.
The good news: some take-back programs and partnerships make it simple. At eSmart Recycling, we handle everything—pickup, logistics, compliance. You just choose when and where.
Another classic excuse: “Why spend money on this if it doesn’t generate revenue?” The reality is that the value isn’t always immediate. It’s in hitting ESG goals, strengthening brand reputation, and reducing carbon emissions.
For context: recycling metals like gold or copper consumes far less energy than mining them from scratch. Still, only 10–15% of the gold inside e-waste is actually recovered. That’s an enormous amount of wasted resources. With us, you can reuse devices internally, resell them, and unlock real value from what’s sitting in storage.
The fear of an old hard drive ending up in the wrong hands is a valid concern. Nobody wants a data breach. But this shouldn’t stop you—today, there are certified processes for data erasure, degaussing, and shredding that eliminate sensitive information for good.
The EPA highlights that devices, if properly treated, are a valuable resource. At eSmart Recycling, we follow strict security protocols and provide certificates of data destruction so you can meet regulations and rest easy.
In 2025, postponing tech recycling isn’t an option anymore. The world produces over 60 million tons of e-waste every year, and only a fraction is managed properly.
The difference between your company staying stuck in excuses or moving into action is choosing the right partner. At eSmart Recycling, we turn barriers into opportunities: real sustainability, full compliance, and a stronger reputation.
You may not notice it, but your company could be hoarding electronic waste (e-waste). Old computers in storage, routers nobody uses anymore, hard drives forgotten in a drawer. All those things you keep around “just in case” rarely come back to life. In the meantime, they take up space, create risks, and slow down your sustainability goals.
Holding on to outdated technology might seem harmless, but it isn’t. Obsolete devices with sensitive information can become an open door to cyberattacks or fines for failing to comply with regulations like HIPAA or GDPR.
And it’s not just about physical space. Digital hoarding is just as costly: duplicated files, disorganized emails, and unused data stored forever. All of this costs money in infrastructure and energy, while also putting your company’s data security at risk.
A clear plan to identify, de-inventory, and properly dispose of outdated assets prevents buildup and helps you stay in control.
There are no shortcuts here — if you want to handle e-waste responsibly, you need a trusted partner. At eSmart Recycling, we are certified, we securely destroy data following the highest standards, and we operate under a triple-impact model: environmental, social, and economic.
What does this mean in practice? While we help you comply with regulations like HIPAA and GDPR, we also give a second life to part of your equipment by donating it to kids and families in need. You solve a problem and, at the same time, create a real positive impact.
Don’t let e-waste pile up. Set quarterly or semi-annual collection days to keep your space organized and minimize risks.
Before recycling, make sure all data is wiped or destroyed under accredited standards. That way, you protect sensitive information and avoid compliance issues.
Processes only work if people understand them. Educate employees on how to recycle and manage digital clutter. Building a culture of sharing — not hoarding — information makes a big difference.
By adopting these practices, you:
At eSmart Recycling, this is our everyday work: we collect outdated devices, securely destroy the data, refurbish what we can, and donate technology to communities that need it most. Your company can join this model and turn a liability into an opportunity for real impact.
At eSmart Recycling, we always say that giving out computers is only part of what we do. What really drives us is the way people connect through technology.
Tony Selvaggio, our founder, expressed it in a way that inspires us every day: it’s not enough to provide access — what matters is how the community uses that technology to grow together and stay connected. That phrase is the compass guiding every project.
The digital divide is not a thing of the past.
These numbers make something very clear: donating equipment helps, but it doesn’t solve everything. The real challenge is to provide guidance, teaching, and spaces where technology can truly be used.
From our experience, several elements change the game:
On September 12, we were in St. Petersburg at the PSTA eRevolution Drive. It was a day that said it all.
People showed up with laptops, phones, and even game consoles. But the most valuable part wasn’t the devices — it was the energy of the gathering. Every conversation, every smile when handing over a device, showed that this is about much more than recycling: it’s about sharing a common purpose.
That day made it clear that the digital divide doesn’t close with wires and screens alone, but with the strength of a community moving together.
What we do has several layers:
It’s more than just access to technology, is bringing the community together to maximize the power of technology and become a digitally connected and empowered community” – Tony Selvaggio
What inspires us is simple: when technology comes together with community, the possibilities multiply. A refurbished device can be the key to an online class, a new job, or a family connection.
That’s what we strive for: every delivery to be paired with relationships, learning, and shared experiences. Every event has a chance to bring people together around something bigger.
World Sustainability Day 2025 is the perfect chance for companies and sustainability leaders in the U.S. to put real actions into motion and inspire their teams to embrace a greener culture (Awareness Days).
This day can serve as a milestone to promote responsible practices, reduce your environmental footprint, and align your team with global sustainability goals. It’s not just about symbolic gestures — it’s about inspiring real change in the way we work, purchase, and collaborate.
Launch a challenge such as “reduce daily break room waste” or “cut down on single-use plastics.” Encourage healthy competition while building a culture of shared responsibility. Track progress weekly and celebrate achievements.
Invite local organizations focused on recycling, responsible consumption, or clean energy to share their initiatives. It’s a way to connect your team with real resources and show that sustainable actions are within reach.
Use the day to reinforce or introduce new initiatives such as recycling, eco-friendly supplies, or energy-saving habits. Encouraging these practices not only protects the planet but can also improve employee satisfaction and reduce costs.
If your business model allows it, use the day to review or promote hybrid and remote work options. Reducing commuting has proven to be an effective sustainability lever across industries.
Review your supply chain and — if possible — switch to vendors with strong green commitments. Sustainable purchasing doesn’t just look good; it pushes the entire value chain toward cleaner practices.
In the hospitality industry, Marriott The Luxury Collection hosted a retreat with chefs from around the world focused on sustainable cooking practices: local sourcing, supply chain analysis tools, and foraging programs. The results were long-lasting — teams were engaged, products improved, and awareness grew beyond the event itself.
World Sustainability Day shouldn’t just be a date on the calendar. It can be the starting point for new practices, more conscious decisions, and a workplace culture that inspires both inside and outside the office. If every company takes a small step, the collective impact can be massive.
We believe days like these are reminders that change starts with daily choices — in how we work, and how we bring our teams along.
For three years, a CPU tower just sat there: taking up space in the office, never turned on, never needed. Like a dusty piece of furniture, forgotten. Nobody filed the paperwork to decommission it, nobody recycled it, nobody donated it. And when someone finally moved it, they realized it had been in the way all that time… for no reason.
This may sound anecdotal, but it reflects a huge problem that many U.S. companies face: ghost hardware. Devices that no longer serve a purpose but also aren’t properly managed, turning into symbols of inefficiency and environmental risk.
In most companies, decommissioning old tech is not a priority. There’s often no clear owner, processes are slow, and, in many cases, people simply let time pass. As a result, servers, desktop towers, old laptops, or even printers end up sitting in closets or storage rooms.
The EPA estimates that the U.S. generates more than 6.9 million tons of electronic waste each year, but less than 20% is properly recycled. And a large part of that e-waste comes from offices that just don’t know what to do with obsolete technology.
A forgotten computer doesn’t just take up physical space. It also:
That forgotten CPU tower is a metaphor for what can be changed. Today, companies have multiple options to prevent hardware from turning into clutter:
A CPU sitting around for 3 years isn’t just an anecdote. It’s a reminder that IT asset management must be part of every sustainability strategy. It’s not just about freeing up space: it’s about saving resources, protecting data, and demonstrating environmental commitment to clients, employees, and partners.
Ghost hardware will always exist in offices… unless someone takes action. And that action, beyond solving clutter, can become a competitive advantage for your company.
If you want to know more about the different programs, partners, and overall cool things happening in the eSmart world, share your email with us, and Join the E-Revolution.
