Recycle Your ComputerBy Rich Eichacker With all the talk of global warming, I thought it would be the perfect time to revisit a topic I presented back in 2001: proper disposal (recycling) of your computer. Back then, it was a bit harder to get rid of your old computer equipment; today it‘s a lot easier, with PC manufacturers such as Dell and HP getting into the game. Both these vendors will recycle your old computer when you buy a new one. Most electronic components contain some amounts of lead, mercury, and other materials that create hazards in landfills. Many states are now banning disposal of electronic equipment in landfills, so it is more important than ever to make sure these materials are disposed of properly. Recycling Options Dell will recycle any old Dell computer for free. If you are purchasing a new Dell, you can recycle your old computer whether it’s a Dell or not. Dell also recycles toner and ink cartridges and printers. Recycling with HP and IBM costs about the same as the local recycler, about $15-$35 per item. With HP’s program, you’ll receive a coupon worth up to $50 for HP products. E-cycling Central is a great resource for finding a local recycling center in your state that accepts electronic equipment. According to this web site, Massachusetts has over 300 sites. It also lists national programs, such as those offered by the major computer manufacturers. Donate Your Equipment The National Cristina Foundation (NCF) coordinates donations to non-profits and schools. Your computer must be in good working condition, with all the software licenses, and not more than 5 years old. For a tax write-off, you can give your computer to Gifts In Kind, an organization similar to NCF. As an alternative, consider offering your computer on FreeCycle, eBay, or craigslist. This is a cheap and convenient way to sell or give away your old equipment to someone who can use it. How to prepare your computer Whether recycling or donating make sure you remove all data from your computer’s hard drive! Deleting files or formatting the drive will still leave your data accessible by a determined thief. Instead, use a program like Darik’s Boot & Nuke or search Google with the term “wipe disk” to find a utility that will wipe the hard drive. It’s important to use a wiping tool so that, in addition to erasing existing data, all areas of the hard drive are repeatedly overwritten with zeros to ensure that nothing can be recovered from the drive. Make sure your wipe tool meets or exceeds US DOD standards for data deletion. Additional Resources World Computer Exchange (WCE) provides computers and support services in education, environment, and economic development to help connect more youth to the Internet through our 422 formal Partners in 61 developing countries. Carbonfund.org – information about climate change, carbon reduction, and carbon offset programs. They partner with a large number of businesses, non-profits, and universities to help spread their message. Earth 911 - Plenty of information on living green and recycling TechSoup - Distributes discarded computers to schools, non-profits, and low-income families. A great resource if your looking for a used computer for yourself or a non-profit. Fall 2007 -Volume 17, Number 4 |
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