How to Recycle a Computer

If you have an old computer lying around that has reached the end of its lifespan, chances are you want to find the best way to get rid of it and reclaim the space it is taking up in your home.  Many people in this situation turn to computer recycling as it is an environmentally friendly way of disposing of old computers that no longer run.

The Benefits:

There are many benefits of computer recycling.  First of all, if you choose a reputable computer recycling service, you can rest assured that all of your personal data is removed from your PC.  This is important as there are many people who look for discarded computers they can use to hijack financial and personal information from.

And of course, recycling a computer instead of throwing it away is considered to be environmentally responsible.  By doing this, you will keep one less item out of landfills and reduce the risk of contaminating precious water supplies.  The metal used to make certain computer components must be mined, which takes a toll on the environment too.  So when you a computer is recycled, these metals can be reused, preserving the metals that are still inside of the earth.

Even if your computer is broken, many times it can still be used if you decide to recycle it.  Many recyclers will take components from other computers considered to be a lost cause and use them to fix other components to make the recycled computer functional again.  This is an invaluable service appreciated by those who are unable to afford the cost of a brand new computer.  Often, refurbished computers are donated to charities.  This means you will not only be helping the environment, but also the community.  Try to find a computer recycling center that works with charities.

How the Process Works:

When you hand over your old computer to a recycling center, the first task they will complete is clearing the computer of all sensitive, personal information.  Then, the center will check the computer in order to find any parts worth reusing to build refurbished computers.  All parts made of metal and plastic that are unable to be reused will be broken down into their basic form.

The broken down components will be organized according to their category of material and turned over to a facility that smelts them or in other words, compacts them into small pieces and melts them to create new items.  During this process, the metals found in a computer's circuit board will be removed and reused instead of thrown away.

It is estimated that only 20% of consumer electronics and personal computers that are not longer in working order are recycled.  This means there is over one million tons of electronic waste in the earth's landfills.  So if you make the smart choice to be environmentally responsible and recycle your old, unused computer, you will be taking an important step to reducing these numbers.

Photo Credits: georgehotelling

Originally posted 2010-05-21 03:22:04.

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computer components, computer recycling center, disposing of old computers, old computer, recycled computer

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Computer Tips, Old Computers and Parts

Posted by How To Computer on January 31, 2012 in Computer Tips, Old Computers and Parts. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.