As the creators of the world’s first digital license plate, we’re reimagining how vehicles connect with the world around them. But with ground-breaking innovation comes responsibility, especially when it comes to our planet. Electronic waste is the world’s fastest-growing trash problem and most of us don’t even realize it.
On Earth Day, we’re taking a closer look at how everyday electronics fit into the bigger sustainability picture—and what responsible recycling can do to help preserve our planet.
What is e-Waste?
Electronic waste, or e-waste, is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world. Electronic waste refers to any discarded device with electronic components. This includes old phones, laptops, televisions (and even the battery in your RPLATE). As our lives become more digital, the number of devices we discard grows exponentially.
While cutting-edge tech makes our lives easier, improper disposal of e-waste can lead to serious environmental issues. That’s why it’s more important than ever to understand what happens when we’re done using a device—and what we can do to ensure its handled responsibly.
Is e-Waste Recycling Good for the Environment?
Yes, recycling electronic waste plays a crucial role in reducing our environmental impact.
e-Waste recycling is good for the environment because it:
- Reduces landfill waste: Electronics contain heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and mercury that can leach into soil and water if improperly discarded.
- Conserves natural resources: Many devices contain reusable materials like copper, aluminum, and rare earth metals.
- Lowers emissions: Recycling reduces the need for raw material extraction, which is energy-intensive and harmful to ecosystems.
Recycling e-waste is one of the easiest ways to support environmental health without changing how we live or work.
What is the Best Way to Dispose of Electronic Waste?
Whether it’s a smartphone, an old laptop, or your RPLATE battery, here are best practices for disposing of e-waste:
- Don’t throw it in the trash – Ever.
- Use certified e-waste recyclers – Find facilities through local government websites or organizations like Call2Recycle.
- Participate in community recycling events and meetings – Earth Day is a great time to look for local drop-offs or get more involved.
- Check out upcoming events in CA!
- For AZ residents, check your city’s website for your local e-waste meetings and events.
- Clear personal data – Always wipe your devices before recycling or donating.
Proper disposal is key to ensuring valuable materials are reused—and that toxic ones don’t harm our environment.
How Do I Recycle My RPLATE Battery?
The RPLATE is built with both longevity and sustainability in mind. Its built-in battery lasts up to five years—but when it’s time for a replacement, responsible recycling matters. Follow these simple steps to ensure proper disposal:
Step 1 – Carefully remove your RPLATE battery.
Need help? View our guide.
Step 2 – Find a certified e-waste center near you and drop it off for proper handling.
Our goal is to keep RPLATE batteries out of landfills and into the hands of experts who can recycle them safely and sustainably.
How Reviver Recycles
At Reviver, sustainability doesn’t stop with product design—it extends to how we handle used and damaged components. Any RPLATES returned through our RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) process that have cracked glass, damaged frames, or other issues are collected and stored in dedicated e-waste containers.
In addition to full units, we also recycle:
- Old printed circuit boards (PCBs) that have been harvested for testing.
- Mounting brackets that may be bent or warped during removal.
These materials are handled through certified e-waste recycling channels, ensuring they’re kept out of landfills and properly processed. It’s all part of our commitment to reducing waste and preserving the planet—one plate at a time.
Which e-Waste is Not Recyclable?
Unfortunately, not everything can be recycled. Items that may be too damaged, hazardous, or outdated for current recycling systems include:
- CRT (cathode ray tube) televisions and monitors
- Certain lithium batteries that are corroded or leaking
- Some types of toys with non-removable electronics
When in doubt, check with your local waste management authority or recycling center to find out what they accept.
What Percentage of e-Waste is Recycled?
According to the Global e-Waste Monitor, only 17.4% of the world’s e-waste is officially documented as properly collected and recycled. That means more than 80% ends up in landfills, burned, or improperly processed.
That’s a staggering statistic, but also a powerful reminder that even small, everyday decisions (like properly recycling a single battery) can help move us towards a better planet.
At Reviver, we believe smart technology should come with smart sustainability. The RPLATE is changing the way drivers interact with their vehicles—but we’re just as committed to making sure its environmental footprint is as minimal as possible.
This Earth Day, take a moment to think about the devices you use and how they’re disposed of when their life cycle ends. Together, through responsible habits and innovative solutions, we can drive toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Happy Earth Day from all of us at Reviver!
