Are there any hidden costs associated with free computer recycling?
free computer recycling
The rapid rate of technology advancement today has many consumers purchasing new computers and electronics. But it is important to remember that your old equipment is still valuable and can be recycled. Computer recycling is a vital part of helping the environment and the local economy. It saves energy, prevents toxic waste from being disposed of and helps reduce the need to obtain raw materials needed to create new devices.
E-waste, or electronic waste, contains many dangerous chemicals that are harmful to the environment and human health. When a free computer recycling or other piece of electronic hardware is sent to the landfill it will break down over time and leak toxins such as lead, mercury, arsenic and cadmium into the soil. These toxins will eventually enter the waterways and can threaten human and animal life. Fortunately, the state of New York has passed an e-waste disposal ban that prohibits businesses and individuals from disposing of unwanted or used e-waste in landfills, waste-to-energy facilities and in curbside trash containers.
In response to the e-waste disposal ban, many manufacturers have started offering free computer recycling programs. Consumers can visit the manufacturer’s websites to find out more information on their e-waste recycling programs. Some of these programs require that the computer or other device be made by that specific manufacturer, while others may accept brands from other companies.
Are there any hidden costs associated with free computer recycling?
One of the most popular free computer recycling options is offered by Dell and Goodwill. Through their ReConnect partnership, consumers can drop off any brand of unwanted computers or other devices at participating Goodwill locations in the United States. Goodwill will sell the devices and use the proceeds to support job training, employment placement services and other community-based programs for people who have disabilities, lack education or job experience or face other employment challenges.
Computers that are donated to ReConnect can be refurbished and sold by Goodwill or broken down into components for reuse or recycled. Consumers are responsible for deleting all personal data from the devices before dropping them off at ReConnect donation sites. Consumers are also responsible for removing batteries from the device, as they must be recycled separately.
The ReConnect program was created to help meet the demand for a convenient way for consumers to recycle their unwanted computers and other electronic devices at no charge. It is expected to divert 96 million pounds of e-waste from landfills and waste-to-energy plants in 2022. Goodwill and Dell are working to expand the ReConnect program nationwide by adding 445 additional stores.
In addition to free computer recycling, the ReConnect program has allowed Goodwill to provide low-income individuals and families, non-profits and youth programs with high quality refurbished computers. To learn more about the ReConnect program, visit the Dell website. If you have questions about how to properly recycle your electronic equipment, contact us at ProTek Recycling. We offer a comprehensive e-waste pickup service in Lower and Midtown Manhattan. You can even request a quote online.