Recycling Old Computers

Computers contain toxic materials, carcinogens, and heavy metals. One of the worst places for an old computer is the landfill. Old computers should either be donated for continued use or recycled properly.

Over 1,000 materials, including chlorinated solvents, brominated flame retardants, PVC, heavy metals, plastics and gases, are used to make electronic products and their components — semiconductor chips, circuit boards, and disk drives. It is irresponsible to simply through this toxic mix into your local landfill.

Here are just a few of the potential hazards from improperly disposed of computers:

Lead
The health effects of lead are well known; lead exposure causes brain damage in children and has already been banned from many consumer products.

Mercury
Mercury is toxic in very low doses, and causes brain and kidney damage. It can be passed on through breast milk; just 1/70th of a teaspoon of mercury can contaminate 20 acres of a lake, making the fish unfit to eat.

Cadmium
Cadmium accumulates in the human body and poisons the kidneys.

BFRs
Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) may seriously affect hormonal functions critical for normal development. A recent study of dust on computers in workplaces and homes found BFRs in every sample taken. One group of BFRs, PBDEs, has been found in alarming rates in the breast milk of women in Sweden and the U.S.

So, what should you do with your old computer? If your computer is in working condition and less than five years old, you should donate it. Perhaps you know someone who could use it? Maybe a local non-profit organization or school? Click here for TechSoups' handy website where you can find a non-profit recycler in your area.

Equipment more than five years old or not in working order should be recycled. Click here for a handy website where you can find a computer recycler in your area.