Learning New Stuff

Helping to Keep the Earth Green – Basics-n-Beyond Teams up with Local Artists and Certified Green Recycling Centers. February 11, 2020 By Chris Ridzon Some frequently asked questions at Basics-n-Beyond (http://www.basicsnbeyond.com) are: What can I do with my old computer? and Can it be recycled?  The answer is yes, and we can help you with that. Since the company first opened its doors in 2009, I have continued to foster my vision for a greener earth through recycling. By partnering with several local organizations, we have achieved a system that benefits not only the earth, but local residents as well. Working with local artists like Tracy Black, The San Diego Makers Guild and government funded groups like Solana Center in Encinitas, Basics-n-Beyond has created a one hundred percent green e-waste recycling program. So, what does this mean for you? For those who have an interest in protecting and preserving the environment, you now have a convenient and safe place to recycle your old Apple devices, at no cost to you. Basics-n-Beyond has a dedicated process to ensure your device is handled in the most responsible way possible. It starts with securely erasing all of your personal data. Once your data has been deleted, our Apple Certified technicians will begin the breakdown of your device, separating reusable components from those that will go further down the recycling path. Repurposing components is another way to further reduce the environmental impact electronic components have on the planet and will provide customers with a low-cost alternative for repairing other devices. What happens to components that are not reusable?  These components are donated to local artists and makers guilds to be upcycled. Upcycling gives leftover components new life, allowing them to be used in new and creative ways. Local artist Tracy Black is just one of the many people we work with. Tracy uses these upcycled components along with other materials to create whimsical three-dimensional art that would tug on the heart strings of any science fiction or fantasy fanatic. Her exhibition, Space & Surface: An Exploration in Art, was recently on display at La Playa Gallery (La Jolla, CA), under the curatorship of Erica Putis and at the internationally acclaimed Corpo Gallery at Bergamot Station Arts Complex (Santa Monica, CA), curated by Monte Beauchamp. Tracy’s earliest piece, “Mac the Knight,” can currently be viewed at the Basics-n-Beyond offices Upstairs at the Forum in Carlsbad. We are also delighted to announce Basics-n-Beyond will be hosting a limited viewing of her newest piece, “Halo Energy Sword,” beginning on March 27^th, 2020. We encourage you to stop by the shop and view both of these fantastic pieces while they are still on display. (http://www.theforumcarlsbad.com) Tracy’s artwork can be seen by clicking on the links below: https://misstracyblack.wixsite.com/mstblack/mstblack https://www.laplaygallery.com/exhibitions.html http://www.coproason.com What happens to the parts that are not reusable or upcycled? Basics-n-Beyond partners with Solana Center in Encinitas, California (https://www.solanacenter.org). Known statewide for environmental innovation, this non-profit organization focuses on Zero Waste and food recovery programs, composting, water conservation, and e-waste recycling. Founded as Solana Recyclers in 1983, Solana Center pioneered the first comprehensive curbside recycling program in San Diego, one of the first such programs in the state of California. Together with their partners, they work creatively to promote the sustainable management of our natural resources and connect the community to real solutions. We also partner with the San Diego Makers Guild where ingenious local minds create anything from robots to lightsabers completing the full circle of reusable e-waste. (http://www.sdmakersguild.org) In summary…  At Basics-n-Beyond we are passionate about solving common public problems. We are committed to the environment and are collaborating with local community members and companies to support a green earth, providing real solutions for consumer recycling. Please stop by our office any time between the hours of 9am and 6pm, Monday through Friday. No appointment is required. As always, we look forward to helping you with all of your technology and recycling needs.