New electronics recycling company opens its doors at Rapid City

By Paul Ploumis (ScrapMonster Author)

March 31, 2016 08:02:15 AM

RAPID CITY (Scrap Monster): Echo Works-a division of Black Hills Works has opened a new electronics recycling facility to the Rapid City community. A ribbon-cutting ceremony and an open house was held on Wednesday. The company had been operating teh facility since December last year. Echo-Works currently employs two disabled individuals and will hire more as it starts receiving larger quantities of ‘e-waste’.

The following electronic devices will be accepted for recycling:- Computers/laptops, Computers components, Flatscreen monitors, Keyboards, Cell phones and tablets, DVR'S, Blueray players, DVD/CD players, Flatscreen TV's and Toner cartridges.

According to Randy Sheppard, Manager of Echo-Works, one must do everything possible to prevent electronic waste from ending up in landfill, as it will take years and years for these items to disintegrate. On the other hand, safe recycling of these items helps us to reuse the parts. Refurbishment of devices increases the access of underprivileged society to the benefits of computers and other devices. Studies indicate that e-waste stream grows five times faster than any other waste stream.

Echo Works, a non-profit started in December last year, hires individuals with disabilities through Black Hills Works.

Black Hills Works provides employment to people with disabilities while also providing electronic recycling services to the community. "It means a great deal to them. They come to work and they love what they're doing. They love taking stuff apart. It makes a big difference in their lives every day that they can come in here and take stuff apart and feel like they're accomplishing stuff," said Randy Sheppard.