eWaste Computer Recycling

Computer circuit boards contain valuable resources such as gold and copper.

Personal electronics, including computers, cell phones and televisions, are manufactured from valuable and potentially toxic materials including metals, plastics and chemicals. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recycling rather than discarding eWaste, or obsolete electronic equipment, conserves natural resources and avoids pollution.

Computer eWaste Statistics

Despite the energy and resources saved by eCycling, the EPA estimates that only 18 percent of end-of-life computers and other eWaste were recycled as of 2006 to 2007, while the rest went to landfills.

Computer eWaste Laws

As of 2010, there is no Federal mandate to recycle eWaste, despite numerous attempts to create such a law. Many states have, however, instituted mandatory electronics recovery programs. For example, California prohibits the disposal of thousands of consumer electronics, including computers, in household trash. In 2008, California's recycling rate for covered electronics was 58 percent.

How to Recycle Your Computer

Consumers can recycle their old computers through various local programs, manufacturer and retail programs or government-sponsored programs. The EPA recommends using websites such as ecyclingcentral.com, sponsored by a trade association of the telecommunications industry, or digitaltips.org, powered by the Consumer Electronics Association, to help you find computer eWaste recycling programs in your state.

References

• U.S. EPA: eCycling
• Californians Against Waste: California Electronic Waste Recycling Act

Resources

• U.S. EPA: Where Can I Donate or Recycle My Old Computer and Other Electronic Products?