What to Consider When Disposing of a Computer
by Leonor Crossley, Demand Media
When getting rid of your computer, there are a few options to consider.
When deciding to purchase a new computer, there are a few things to consider as to what to do with the old one. Think about all available options before just deciding to throw the computer out in the trash where it will end up in a local dump. Computers contain materials that are harmful to the environment, including lead, cadmium and mercury. The environmentally-conscious website Earth911 refers to the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, which predicts future problems for the U.S. and the entire world because an estimated 75 percent of old, unused electronic products are currently held in storage, waiting to be disposed of.
Upgrading
Depending upon what you use your computer for, just deciding to have upgrades added to it may save the computer from becoming waste and possibly save you money. Some common things that are added to computers include more RAM, DVD burners and video cards. Check with a qualified local computer technician. Tell him what you want your computer to be able to do and if it is possible to add it to your computer. Depending upon what you are adding on, this could end up being less expensive than buying a new computer. However, multiple upgrades can become quite costly, so make sure you do your research on this possibility.
Donating
If you've done all your research and upgrading isn't an option, or if you've decided to purchase a new computer system, consider donating your old computer as long as it is still in good working condition. Some nonprofit organizations, schools or other local groups can really use the donation. Earth911 provides a list of places in your area that accept computer donations.
Selling
For those wanting to receive some extra cash, there is always the option of selling your computer on a website like eBay or Craigslist, or placing a local classified ad. Tell your friends and family that you are looking to get rid of your computer for a low cost and have them spread the word around. Finding someone who can use the computer is always an even better option than recycling.
Recycling
There does come a time when a computer becomes so out-of-date that it is best to just pull the plug for good. When this happens, it is important to find a place that recycles computers to cut down on e-waste. Check with your local electronics stores such as Best Buy or Staples. Many of these accept unwanted computers for recycling. Large computer manufacturers and corporations, such as Hewlett-Packard, Great Lakes Electronics Corporation, Apple, A-Z Computer and Computer Corps also offer recycling programs, according to earth911.com. You can also call your local waste company and ask if they have a computer recycling program, which many do. Earth911 contains a list of stores or businesses that recycle computers in your area.
Electronic Waste Statistics
There were more than 40 million unused computers in 2007 according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which promotes safe recycling of computers and other electronics. This number has more than doubled since 1998. The EPA reported in 2007 that 82 percent (1.84 million tons) of the 2.25 million tons of obsolete electronics in the U.S. (including computers) were primarily disposed of in landfills while only 18 percent (414,000 tons) were recycled. The EPA hopes this recycling percentage will increase substantially in years to come because of the establishment of mandatory recycling and collection laws of electronic products imposed in many states across the nation.
