How to Recycle Computer Stuff

Recycle your old computer hardware.

Keeping up with new technology can mean leaving old devices and gadgets behind. But outdated computers and electronics can be a hazard. Computer components contain heavy metals like lead, mercury, cadmium and chromium. These are dangerous and highly toxic, even in small quantities. Left in landfills, old electronics are at high risk for contaminating groundwater. Responsible computer users will want to find a way to dispose of old components in an environmentally friendly way. There are several available options for donating or recycling old computer parts if you are willing to do a little research. Local programs run by private environmental groups, and other programs run by companies that make or sell computers, offer a number of opportunities to upgrade your hardware without polluting the earth.

Things You'll Need

• Internet search access

Instructions

1. Find the Right Program

   At http://www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/materials/ecycling/donate.htm, you will find links to several websites that offer computer disposal programs. Some provide help with donations or sales of old equipment, such as EcoSquid.com, and others, like TechSoup.org, focus on recycling and reuse. For the future, you can also consult sites such as DigitalTips.org/green, which offers advice for greener choices in computer buying.

   There are also many corporations that offer recycling of digital devices and computer hardware. The EPA website has a list of these kinds of programs as well.

2. Follow the Guidelines of the Program You Choose

   Some programs have pickup services, but many require you to drop off your equipment at a store or a center. Some programs have limitations on what you can recycle or how much you can drop off at one time. Be sure to double-check these kinds of requirements before you take your equipment to any recycling program.

3. Erase Your Data Before Recycling

   Recycling or donating your old computer is good for the environment, but don't get burned doing it! To protect your identity and keep your own and your contacts' information private, you will want to wipe your data from any hardware you plan to recycle. Cell phones and other small devices usually include instructions for erasing your data; consult the owner's manual or the manufacturer's website.

   To erase the hard drive of a computer, you will need to use a special program for your particular operating system. Consult http://web.mit.edu/ist/isnews/v22/n04/220406.html for a list of links to such programs for all computer systems and types.

Tips & Warnings

• To "close the recycling loop," don't just recycle your old equipment--buy new equipment made from recycled materials as much as possible. You can buy "new" computer components and technological devices from vendors like GreenDisk.com, CanvasSystems.com and RePC.com.

References

• EPA.gov: Where Can I Donate or Recycle My Old Computer?
• Web.MIT.edu: Safe Computing: Erase Data from Devices Before You Sell or Recycle
• GreenDisk.com: Products
• NYSSCPA.org: Disposal of Old COmputer Equipment