Living Green

Computers & The Environment

From Earth911

An analysis by the National Safety Council estimates that about 500 million obsolete computers are in need of disposal. As new technologies enter the market approximately every two years, e-waste is a mounting concern.

There are different options available for computers besides just throwing them away (or storing them). Many computers are built in a way that allows them to be repaired or upgraded, which means they can be reused. With little effort, these computers can be as good as the PCs currently on the market. Many programs accept computer donations (which are generally tax deductible), whereby the computers are refurbished and sent to local schools or organizations in need.

The other viable option is recycling. Computers are made with a variety of elements, like plastics, glass, steel, gold, lead, mercury, cadmium and fire retardants that can be recaptured through recycling and used again. If thrown away, these computers can release toxins to the environment, potentially polluting the groundwater we drink and the air that we breathe. Recycling the resources in computers also eliminates the need to obtain these elements from nature, decreasing production impact on the environment.

By eliminating e-waste, the environment is protected, resources are saved, organizations in need benefit and you make a difference in the quality of your local environment.

For more information, visit Earth 911.