Many people who are eco-conscious don’t want to just throw out their old electronics, and there’s good reason for this! Electronics have many recyclable parts, including metal interiors and plastic housing. Plus, they don’t break down in landfills, and many leach harmful chemicals into the environment around a landfill. If you’re asking how to deal with the disposal of computer, the answer is that there are a few ways to go about it:
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Reduce: Do you need a new machine?
The old “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” phrase starts with reducing consumption for a reason. It’s easy to get carried away in the latest trends and fads, but if you’re dealing with the disposal of computer, you may need to ask yourself if you really need a new one. You might check first to see if your old one can be fixed or upgraded. You might be surprised at how well an older computer can perform with a few minor upgrades!
Reuse: Can it be donated?
If your old computer still works but you do need a new one for whatever reason, you should consider donating it. There are plenty of places that take used electronics and turn them into something good – like technology in the classroom or for job training purposes.
Even if it seems to you like your computer isn’t working very well or can’t be repaired, you should check for donation programs in your local area, like Recycle San Diego’s computer donation program, for example:
Recycle: There are still plenty of options
Even if your old machine is totally a mess and is beyond repair or use, you can still recycle it instead of just throwing it on the junk heap. If you’re in the San Diego area, recyclesandiego.org has great information about how you can recycle your old electronics.
Not in San Diego? Check to see if there are local collection programs on Earth911.org that will help you responsibly get rid of your old computer. Not only do programs like Recycle San Diego deal with disposal of computer parts, but they can also take other electronics, like cell phones and DVD players.
No matter which of these three options you choose, you’ll be doing something great for the environment by refusing to simply toss your old computer in the trash, even if that’s the easier option.
