Guide to Recycling Electronics

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

05 Mar 2009 11:47 AM

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Americans toss out about 2 million tons of e-waste, that is electronic devices that are no longer useful. Computers and other electronics can actually provide hazards to the environment beyond just taking up space as trash. Electronic waste can leach all sorts of dangerous chemicals, such as arsenic, lead, mercury and other toxic elements. That is why it is so important to recycle electronics properly. Here is a guide for you to use.

Let's start with the biggest electronic impact to the environment, computers. More computers are tossed ever year over any other electronic device.

Computers

Computers that are in working condition and less than five years old are great for donating. Personally, you may find uses for computers even older than that depending on the type of computer. Our desktop Mac is eight years old and can still run the latest software. Check with an organization, such as freecycle, to see if anyone would like your old computer.

Many charities will refurbish your old computer and pass it on to individuals or organizations in need. These computers can be the world of difference to someone who might not otherwise be able to have one.

Staples also will offer a voucher when you bring in your old computer. The voucher can be used to purchase items in the store. A laptop, for example, might get you a $100 voucher.

If no one wants to use your computer, then call the store or manufacturer of the unit. Many stores will recycle their own brand for free. Dell and Apple are two computer makers that will do this. Some stores even recycle any brand for free, as long as you are purchasing an upgrade or new unit at their store.

Finally, if you still aren't finding any luck, Staples will recycle any computer, no matter the brand, age or condition for a small $10 fee.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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ackbarr (5) 06 Mar 2009 07:52 AM

Before recycling a computer or laptop - it is a good idea to wipe the hard drive to remove any personal information residing on the computer. dBan is a free solution (http://www.dban.org/) that does a good job at wiping hard drives.

In addition to the resources listed in the article, you can also use Earth911.com to find a local recycler. For a list of questions to ask a recycler you can see my post here: http://www.epcusa.com/news/2009/02/finding-local-recycler-individual-dropoffs/

Mary Ann Romans (26886) 06 Mar 2009 12:22 PM

Thanks for the tips!