Get Rid Of E-Waste By Reusing, Donating, Or Recycling Computers

by Adriana Noton

Many businesses don’t know how to properly dispose of their e-waste. They stockpile old or broken computers in a storage room indefinitely. These computers could have another lease on life by being donated or recycled. Thankfully, businesses, as well as the home user, have easy options for recycling computers.

Technology is causing computers to become obsolete at a very quick pace. Prices have decreased as well, allowing users to replace the old technology with the latest and greatest available. With the stockpile of old computers growing, why is it vital that we recycle? As computers decompose, dangerous chemicals find their way to the water supply and into the air.

Computers contain many valuable elements that can be used after reclamation. These include lead, gold, and copper. For example, a 15-inch monitor can contain over five pounds of lead that can be reused to construct new system.

Consumers now have many options for disposing of their obsolete computers. One of the most common methods is donation to charity. Many charities are in need of computers to assist in their work. Typically, due to budget constraints, a proper computer is the last thing a charitable organization can afford. With your donated computer, these organizations, such as group homes, after school clubs, and senior citizen centers, can continue their programs.

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.

Have you ever been in the basement of your office building and it looks like a computer graveyard? Ever wonder how a business disposes of all of this e-waste? Generally, bulk waste cannot be disposed of using the same methods as consumers. Some computer manufacturers will work with companies to recycle their waste for them. However, manufacturers will typically not take back other brand names. That leaves the business to contract disposal to a third party contractor. These contractors specialize in the proper disposition of e-waste. What is important for businesses to remember is that they are still held liable for the proper disposal of their bulk computers, regardless of what methods they use. Infractions can cost companies hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines.

With the number of methods available for the disposal of both consumer and bulk business computers, recycling is now a painless process. By doing a little bit of research to find out your local options, you will be doing your part to save the environment from its newest danger.

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.

Share and Enjoy:
  • Digg
  • Sphinn
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Mixx
  • Google Bookmarks
  • Bumpzee
  • De.lirio.us
  • Furl
  • LinkedIn
  • MySpace
  • Propeller
  • Spurl
  • StumbleUpon
  • Technorati
  • Tumblr
  • Yahoo! Buzz

No related posts.

Previous post:

Next post: