Recycling Computers To Get Rid Of E-Waste

June 10th, 2010

Have you ever been to the basement of your office building and seen hundreds of obsolete or broken computers sitting in the hallway? What do you do with those CRT monitors you have at home after you replace them with flat screens? What do you do with all of that e-waste? Previously, many people would just toss the computer or monitor in the trash. Thankfully, recycling computers is now easy even for the home user.

Computer technology changes faster than we can keep up. That coupled with the lower cost of computers means that we are replacing obsolete machines at an alarming rate. Why is it important to recycle? If not disposed of properly, computers can turn into toxins or carcinogens when left to rot in a dump. This causes materials such as lead and mercury, to seep into the soil and invade the water table.

Some components inside of the computer contain valuable resources that should not be left to sit in a garbage dump. These include tin, iron, and silicon, which can be reused after reclamation.

Consumers have more and more options for recycling e-waste. Looking for a tax break? For consumers, donating a computer to a worthy cause is often a good alternative. By donating your computer to an organization in need, these charities can use the donated machines in their education programs, job search programs, and community outreach programs.

Most consumers know little about the various take back programs offered by computer companies. These computer recycling programs are offered by most of the major companies, but vary from program to program. Some companies will take back their own brand of computers for free, but charge a small free for other brands. Others will only take back their own brand but will offer you discount on your next computer purchase as an incentive to buy their brand again.

Another lesser known program is the exchange program. Manufacturers will exchange your old computer for a new model. They will turn around and renovate the old model in preparation for resale. Most manufacturers will offer these refurbished computers at a discount on their website or in their retail stores. Typically, these revamped models will come with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. This allows for consumers who could not usually afford a computer to be able to benefit.

Businesses have some of the same alternatives as consumers, but often they have bulk e-waste that doesn’t lend itself to the usual disposal methods. Computer manufacturers may offer bulk recycling service, but tend not to include brand names other than their own. There are third party contractors that specialize in the proper removal and disposal of bulk e-waste. Regardless of what method a company uses, they must remember that they are responsible for complying and abiding by all rules and regulations, both federal and state.

While most people recycle their household waste, they forget about recycling their e-waste. This waste is just as harmful to the environment and must be disposed of properly as well. There are many options for both consumers and researchers to dispose of their old computers in a way that is painless for them and the environment.

At low prices and with such convenient access, purchasing used computers Toronto is an economically viable option for those seeking quality technology. Another recommended alternative is renting computers, which allows users to conserve money and test the platform first-hand.

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Recycling Computers To Get Rid Of E-Waste

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