So you finally got that upgrade you’ve been longing for or that must have computer gadget you didn’t think you could live without. It’s all unpacked and the only thing in the way of setting it up is your old dated machine it will be replacing. Doesn’t seem like a very big obstacle right? Well maybe not, but if you were planning on getting rid of it with the rest of your house hold refuse you should think again. This is not only extremely bad for the environment but actually illegal in many countries.
Why is it bad for the environment?
Electronic products contain a large number of toxic materials that can’t safely just be left in landfills. The average older monitorhas around 5lbs of Led inside that if released into the environment can cause serious health problems for those living in the surrounding areas.
Recycle your machines
So when it’s time to get rid of your out dated machine you really need to look into other options, the greenest option is to not get rid of it at all but to give it to someone who can use it. The vast majority of electronics being dumped now days are still fully functional just slightly out dated. If your device still works why not try finding a friend or family member that can use it, or maybe donate it to a charitable cause. Not everyone has very demanding computer needs and even if you find it too slow it could meet someone else’s needs and make them very happy.
[Read also : How to Sell Used Computers]
Even if your computer has stopped working, chances are it still contains a number of parts such as RAMs and the hard drive that work fine. Do a little research online and see if there’s anyone in your area that is looking for parts. There are a lot of people who repair and even build whole new PCs out of salvaged parts. It is then the responsibility of who ever took your machine to safely dispose of any parts they did not use.
[Read also: All Sizes of Toner Cartridges Can Be Recycled]
Use the proper disposal services
Even if you really can’t find a new home for your old machine it is still not ok to just dump it with your regular bin collection. You have a moral and often legal obligation to make sure the toxic parts are broken down properly. In many areas local government will have set up centres that you can take your electronics to for safe disposal, some will even arrange to collect your devices from you, if you’re lucky enough to be in one of these areas you should do this.
If your city hasn’t got a public service like this you should still be able to find a private service, most electronics stores should be able to advise you on nearby companies that do this. One major company that offers a collection service for many PC and Apple products is Equanet: IT Solutions. If you bought your new device from them, they will often arrange to take the old one for free. Even when there is a small charge attached you should consider this a small price to pay for conserving the environment and not breaking the law.
[Read more: Tips to Get Rid of Old Computers Safely]
How did you get rid of your old computer equipment? Let us know in the comments.
If you can trade it with new one then better, other companies like hp are willing to dispose your old pc without any cost when you buy new one from them..
If you buy through big companies then you are likely to find these options, particularly with new EU regulations, buying through smaller companies or building your own PC is where it can get a little more difficult.
Wait! So tossing it out the window into my backyard is not the right way to dispose of my old computer?
Like Nhick said: some companies might take it off your hands for you. When I bought my tv I actually got a discount after giving them an old pc. Any old appliance would do. So if I didn’t have one, I would’ve probably went out and buy an old pc to get the discount for my tv.
Well I guess if it’s your own backyard that’s up to you, but defiantly are better ways.
I’ve not heard of companies giving discounts on other products for old computers, that’s interesting, I guess it’s a good marketing strategy though, like used car companies that will sell for part exchange.
Thanks for the comment
An old computer, fridge or tv all would be fine.
It was actually set up by the government, I only know that the Beijing government does it, I don’t know about other places.
This means you have to give a copy of your Beijing ID, but the company was not very strict so they allowed me to use someone elses ID.
So I assume they get money from the city.
Sounds like a good idea, similar I guess to WEEE in europe
Thats right, not only computer even all the electronic appliances must be disposed correctly so that it can be recycled. If we just not follow the right way of disposal of these equipment then it can be dangerous for our environment because they has so many toxic substances in that.
You’re right of course but it’s worrying how many people aren’t aware of this
Very informative post. When I started up this was one of my main concerns. Now if it is totally dead and worthless it gets recycled and disposed of correctly but the machines that do work go to good causes ( charitys for computers in third world countries)
It’s good to hear that a lot of people have always been concerned with this issue, it used to be much harder to dispose of computers responsibly.
Hi Ewan most of us don’t even have an idea about how toxic the cyber garbage can be. The recycling of the waste reduces the eco hazard to an extent. After all it is our responsibility to know about our environment and things those hurt.
I think more people are becoming aware a lot of the time people are just taking the easy option.
I think recycling is the best option here. Don’t forget that thrift shops, churches, schools and non-profit organizations may be perfectly fine with your computer. You can also give it away on Freecycle and Craigslist.
So much stuff thrown away still works people just want the newest gadgets, but not everyone’s demands are so high.
I had my out dated computer before. I just change the OS version and RAM, then I gave it to someone that really need it.