1/15/09

E-cycle old computers for free

by Beckye Randall

Until now, disposing of old computers, monitors and TV sets has been a challenging and expensive task. The electronic equipment, which may contain hazardous materials like lead, cadmium and mercury, was not accepted at local landfills or recycling centers, and paying someone to take your junk just seemed, well, wrong.

Beginning January 1, the state of Washington instituted an electronic recycling program that is funded by the manufacturers of the products in question and, therefore, free to consumers.

The program is open to residents, schools, charities and small businesses with 50 or fewer employees. The number of items that can be recycled at one time varies by location, but is generally limited to four to seven units.

Free recycling is only available for computers, laptops, monitors and TVs. Consumers may have to pay a fee for keyboards, printers, fax machines and other peripheral devices. Not all locations will be able to take additional equipment, even for a fee.

Equipment that is turned in to one of the collection sites may be reused or refurbished, depending on condition. The consumer is responsible for removing personal or business data prior to recycling.

In fact, the state is urging residents and small businesses to consider reuse of their equipment rather than recycling. Equipment that can be refurbished for use by schools, non-profit organizations or disadvantaged families will reduce the environmental impact of discarding electronics while providing needed help for others in the community. InterConnection (www.interconnection.org) offers services to help promote responsible reuse of electronic products.

Items collected for recycle will be taken apart and separated into materials such as glass, plastic, metal and toxic chemicals. All recycling will adhere to standards mandated by the Department of Ecology.

The new "product stewardship" program is paid for by the corporations that make computers, laptops, monitors and televisions. A list of locations in your area is available by visiting www.ecyclewashington.org or by calling 1-800-RECYCLE.   

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