If you can't donate your old computer, or if it's broken beyond repair, recycle it. Today there are numerous recycling options for old computers. However, not all the computer equipment returned for recycling ends up at an appropriately managed facility. (To learn more about this issue, including why it's important to keep computers out of landfills, visit our section on What you need to know). Here are some tips on choosing a responsible recycler, as well as information on where to recycle rechargeable batteries and printer cartridges.
Computer recycling resources
Printer cartridge recycling resources
Rechargeable battery recycling resources
Don't recycle your identity!
To find a responsible computer recycler:
1. Consider a recycler that has signed this pledge. A coalition of environmental groups recently established a voluntary program known as the Electronics Recycler's Pledge of True Stewardship. The recyclers agree not to export hazardous electronic components to developing countries, not to dispose of equipment in municipal landfills or incinerators not equipped to handle it, and not to use prison labor, among other things. The program is relatively new, but the number of companies that have signed on is growing. For a searchable map of recyclers that have signed the pledge, click here.
2. Otherwise, find a recycler using the list of resources below, and ask them these questions:
The following questions and acceptable sample answers were adapted from the Basel Action Network (BAN), an environmental advocacy group.
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Q1. Which state or local electronics disposal laws do you comply with?
[Acceptable answer would be that they comply with state and local electronics disposal regulations; to find out about E-waste legislation in your area, visit the US Environmental Protection Agency's e-cycling map (scroll down to see state listings)].
Q2. Do you send any electronic waste overseas? If so, where? [Acceptable answer would be that if they do send it overseas, they send it to developed countries including those in the European Union, and to facilities with environmental management systems in place.]
Q3. Where do you send your hazardous waste? [Acceptable answer would be that they send it to a facility that specializes in hazardous waste.]
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-More specifically, where do you send your high value circuit boards (those that contain precious metals found in computer processors)? [Acceptable answer would be that circuit boards are sent to a facility that recovers metals or repairs boards.]
-Where do you send your low-value circuit boards (those that contain little or no precious metals found in monitors and TVs)? [Acceptable answer would be that these circuit boards are sent to a facility that repairs boards or disposes of them in an environmentally responsible way.]
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Computer recycling resources:
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• Local community programs. Some municipalities offer recycling programs that accept electronic waste. To find out whether a program exists in your community, you can contact your local waste management agency or consult the searchable map on the Electronic Industry Alliance Web site.
• Manufacturer programs. You may find that the company you buy your next computer from will take the old one off your hands, either for free or at a nominal cost. Some companies also provide discounts on new equipment for customers who send the old gear back for recycling. Major manufacturers with recycling services include Apple, Dell, HP, and Gateway.
• Retailer programs. Some retailers accept used computer equipment for recycling. For example, Staples now accepts all used computers at any time for a fee of $10. Other retailers like Best Buy and Office Depot sponsor free, limited-time, in-store collection events.
• Consider a private recycling firm. You can also take your electronic waste directly to a private recycling company. You can find lists of such companies on the Electronic Industries Alliance page (click on your state, then on find reuse and recycle options), as well as at Earth 911 and TechSoup. Be sure to contact the recycler, or check for details on its Web site, to find out if it accepts the type of computer you plan to recycle.
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Recycling old batteries. Rechargeable batteries should be recycled to keep the heavy metals they contain out of landfills. The industry-funded Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation has more than 30,000 locations where you can drop off batteries for recycling. Those include many major retailers, including Best Buy, Home Depot, Staples, and Target among others.
Recycling empty printer cartridges. Used ink and toner cartridges are easier for companies to recycle because they can be refilled and resold at a profit. Local charities often hold printer cartridge and toner recycling drives, and Staples offers drop-off boxes in each of its stores. Consumers may also be able to profit from selling their old ink cartridges and toners to recyclers. Among others, Recyclers USA offers up to $3 per cartridge.
Don't recycle your identity! Before you recycle your machine, make sure that you rid it of all traces of personally identifiable information that could be used for identity theft. Visit our Protect your identity section to learn how.
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