Recycling Computers Is A Safer Way To Get Rid Of E-Waste
View PDF | Print View
by: Adriana Noton
Total views: 32
Word Count: 554
Date: Thu, 10 Jun 2010 Time: 10:54 AM
0 comments
Have you ever been to the basement of your office building and seen hundreds of obsolete or broken computers sitting in the hallway? What do you do with those CRT monitors you have at home after you replace them with flat screens? What do you do with all of that e-waste? Previously, many people would just toss the computer or monitor in the trash. Thankfully, recycling computers is now easy even for the home user.
Computer technology changes faster than we can keep up. That coupled with the lower cost of computers means that we are replacing obsolete machines at an alarming rate. Why is it important to recycle? If not disposed of properly, computers can turn into toxins or carcinogens when left to rot in a dump. This causes materials such as lead and mercury, to seep into the soil and invade the water table.
Computers contain many resources that can be removed during the recycling process and eventually reused. These elements include tin, silicon, and plastic. Some reclaimed minerals, such as copper and gold, are too valuable to be left in a landfill.
For consumers, recycling e-waste is becoming more and more convenient. One popular method is donation. You can give your computer to a charity. Some common organizations that use the donated computers include libraries, foster homes, animal shelters, or community centers. This helps a cause, and will help you get a bit of a tax break at the end of the year.
Most consumers know little about the various take back programs offered by computer companies. These computer recycling programs are offered by most of the major companies, but vary from program to program. Some companies will take back their own brand of computers for free, but charge a small free for other brands. Others will only take back their own brand but will offer you discount on your next computer purchase as an incentive to buy their brand again.
Companies may also exchange your old computer for a new one. If the computer is still in good working condition, the manufacturer will refurbish the old machine and offer it for sale at a discounted rate. These typically come with some sort of warranty for the new owner. This program is helpful to those that may otherwise not be able to afford a computer.
Businesses have some of the same alternatives as consumers, but often they have bulk e-waste that doesn't lend itself to the usual disposal methods. Computer manufacturers may offer bulk recycling service, but tend not to include brand names other than their own. There are third party contractors that specialize in the proper removal and disposal of bulk e-waste. Regardless of what method a company uses, they must remember that they are responsible for complying and abiding by all rules and regulations, both federal and state.
While most people recycle their household waste, they forget about recycling their e-waste. This waste is just as harmful to the environment and must be disposed of properly as well. There are many options for both consumers and researchers to dispose of their old computers in a way that is painless for them and the environment.
About the Author
At low prices and with such convenient access, purchasing used computers Toronto is an economically viable option for those seeking quality technology. Another recommended alternative is renting computers, which allows users to conserve money and test the platform first-hand.
Rating: Not yet rated
Login to vote
