We’re super excited to have one of our long-time and favorite event partners back again for Gulf Coast MakerCon 2024! A cherished part of Gulf Coast MakerCon since 2015, eSmart Recycling combines environmental sustainability and social impact metrics which results in a comprehensive approach to offsetting carbon emissions through recycling technology, at both a corporate and residential level and empowers local communities by enabling access to technology and education in the process.
In short: eSmart finds creative ways to monetize most of the electronics they collect. Afterward, about 30% of the proceeds go toward refurbishing computers and deploying them for children and families without access to resources in Tampa Bay and worldwide. FCDI’s AMRoC Fab Lab is a recipient of eSmart’s generosity, with their sponsorship of the Fab Lab’s computer lab.
At Gulf Coast MakerCon 2024, eSmart will be running an e-waste drive where visitors can drop off their old electronics (now’s your chance to unload those old computers and phones!) as well as their ever-popular Deconstruction Zone, where kids (and
adults!) can take apart old electronics to learn more about what’s inside them.
So pack up the kids and those old electronics – anything with a plug, a switch or a battery (full list of acceptable electronics HERE) – and come out to enjoy the day at Gulf Coast MakerCon!