How to Recycle Computer Screens

Recycle the screen to keep hazardous materials out of landfills.

There's no reason to place a working computer screen (also called a monitor) into a landfill. Doing so adds plastic and metal waste to the environment, not to mention toxic chemicals like arsenic and lead. While not all cities and towns run electronics recycling programs that take old computer screens, some do, and you'll find many other convenient options that take little time and effort on our part. Recycling computer screens is easy and environmentally responsible.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check with the manufacturer of the new computer screen you are buying to determine if it has a computer screen recycling program. Also, check with the company who manufactured your old computer screen. Recycle the computer screen through the manufacturer, following its recommended procedures for returning the old equipment.

2. Take the old computer screen to an electronics store that offers electronics recycling. Best Buy recycles computer screens for free or for a $10 charge, depending on your location; customers who are charged will receive a $10 rebate from Best Buy. Office Depot sells electronics recycling boxes for $5 to $15; purchase the right sized box for your screen, and place the screen inside to recycle through their program.

3. Give computer screens less that 5 years old to a Microsoft Refurbisher. Search its directory to find a local refurbisher, and then call to determine the proper drop-off procedure.

4. Recycle the computer screen through your town's electronics recycling program, if one is available. Call the Department of Public Works to obtain municipal electronics recycling guidelines, and then follow proper protocols for disposal.

5. Donate your old computer screens to local charities. Check with schools, libraries, youth outreach programs and senior centers, advises GreenWorld 365. Computers with Causes runs a monitor donation program if you can't donate the monitor within your community.

References

• GreenWorld 365: Where to Recycle Computer Monitors
• Best Buy: FAQs for Electronics Recycling Program
• Good Clean Tech: How to Recycle at Office Depot

Resources

• Microsoft Registered Refurbisher: Directory
• Computers with Causes: Donate Monitors