How to Recycle a PC

Recycling an old PC is an important environmentally friendly decision. PCs contain numerous elements and hazardous chemicals which should be recycled. If an old PC is still in working condition it should be donated, if at all possible. If the PC is no longer functional then recycling is necessary.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Look in the telephone book for recycling centers. Most recycling centers do not take electronics. However, if a PC owner lives in a larger metropolitan area, recycling centers have been geared up to handle PCs.

2. Check the newspaper listings and yellow pages under "Computers." To do their part for the environment, some computer repair shops now handle recycling, but the repair shop may require PC owners to pay a fee.

3. Call the state environmental protection agency. The EPA has many statewide recycling programs. The EPA's state recycling coordinators organize recycling events and these are specifically geared towards the more difficult recycling items such as PCs and other electronics. The old PC may have to be put in storage in the garage or basement for several months to wait for the recycling day.

4. Ask the local school or university. Environmental education is now a standard part of science curriculum. School districts often hold recycling days to get their student's involved in the community. Ask about recycling electronics specifically because they are often not included in school recycling programs due to the difficulty in disposing of the components.

5. Start a local campaign to hold an electronics and hazardous waste recycling day. These items often are thrown into the trash or dumped along roadsides which damages the local environment and turns roadways into eyesores. Call the mayor or city council office. The School Board may also want to become involved. Call or visit local colleges and universities as well. Involvement in environmental protection is in everyone's best interest.

Resources

• PC Recycle.net.
• PC World.
• Computer Recycling.

[lucasglover]

on 10/7/2009 The last time I had to get rid of my old electronic devices I used recycleapc.com I did some research about them and It looks like they had all their certificates up to date. They also are an official Apple and Asus recyclers so it was an easy choice. They are highly trusted and have been in this business for decades. 30$ is a small price to pay to know that my carbon footprint will be smaller and my information will be safe.