To find local recycling opportunities or other organizations that reuse and refurbish computers, consult the state-by-state listings and zip-code searchable databases available on the following web sites:
- The Environmental Protection Agency has a state by state waste program look up.
- The National Recycling Coalition has partnered with Dell. They are taking back computers in cities across the country on the “No Computer Should Go to Waste” Tour.
- The Electronics Industries Alliance has a state by state guide detailing recycling programs across the country.
- Earth 911 web site allows consumers to choose specific items and then provides a list of places by city and state where consumers can recycle or donate.
- TechSoup web site includes a zip-code searchable database listing organizations that will take used equipment, those that offer low-cost refurbished products, and other information.
- The Cristina Foundation will take usable PCs for groups or individuals who cannot afford to buy new PCs.
- The Wireless Foundation’s “Call to Protect” campaign collects wireless phones to benefit victims of domestic violence. Many phones are resold to raise funds. Others are refurbished and become lifelines for domestic violence victims when faced with an emergency situation.
Check with your local waste management agency to find out if your municipality has a recycling program that accepts electronic waste. Many municipalities in states that have banned computer equipment from landfills offer collection or drop-off programs.
