Safely Dispose Electronics: Recycle Responsibly

Computer equipment: If nobody can use the old PC, or it's just too old (that is, it can't run at least Windows 95 or Mac OS 7.5), it may be destined for the scrap heap. Consider keeping the CRT monitor as a spare or giving it away, since it's the most environmentally hazardous component, with pounds of lead-filled glass and other toxins. Some states – Massachusetts was the first – have banned them in landfills.

If you're planning to buy a new PC, some manufacturers, like Dell and HP, offer low or no-cost recycling to customers who purchase new products or services, or special discounts on new equipment for customers who send equipment back for recycling.  

Small Electronics, such as cell phones:  For small electronic equipment, the most important component to recycle is the battery. Funded by rechargeable battery manufacturers, the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation collects dropped-off batteries from over 30,000 locations listed in a zip-code searchable database on the RBRC web site.  Drop-off boxes for all types of small rechargeable batteries and mobile devices like pagers and cell phones are also available at some big-name retailers like Best Buy and Staples.  These retailers may also occasionally host recycling events for larger electronic devices like televisions and computers.

Caution: Not all equipment that is returned for recycling actually makes it to an appropriately managed recycling facility. The Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition has found that some equipment has been diverted to developing countries where equipment is sent to uncontrolled landfills.  As a result, the local environment in these areas can become contaminated and some local residents, in an effort to reclaim valuable metal components, can be exposed to hazardous materials. Some companies are pledging to track the equipment that is returned for recycling to prevent export to developing countries and to take special measures to keep the hazardous components out of the environment. When choosing a recycling program, look for ones that use a recycling firm that has taken the Electronics Recyclers’ Pledge of True Stewardship.  The program is new, but the number of firms taking the pledge is growing.