How Exactly Are Computers Recycled

For years much of the recycling of e-waste has been done by China. Sending e-waste to China for recycling has been illegal since 2000. That�s because a lot of dirty recycling and dumping into landfills was going on. It�s still happening because of smuggling and corruption.
You can use the manufacturer�s recycling program, which is easy to do. Major manufacturers normally charge a fee and you�ll need to package it for shipping to them or you can call 1-800 ClEANUP for resources in your state that provide information about recycling. Some manufacturers give you credit for old computers parts that you can apply to buying new computers. There are electronics companies that will actually pickup your computer for you that have global recycling capabilities.

Here�s the information you need ready before calling a recycler: the type of computer whether PC or Mac, model number and other desktop items you�re recycling like keyboard, mouse or printer.

The best recycling facilities will provide a legal certification document. It shows that they legally comply with environmental laws in all 50 states. You may check for legalities in your country. The will also destroy hard drives by shredding and melting them. This is the best way to destroy data on the hard drive. They will destroy your data in a locked down and monitored facility.

Computers and other electronics contain materials that are suitable for reclamation and reuse in other products. Plastics, glass, steel, aluminum, copper, gold, silver, and other metals can be reused. Make sure the de-manufacturer you use has a closed loop system, whereby all of the reclaimed materials are fashioned into new products.

Check Out Our Other Articles About Computer Recycling

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Should You Recycle or Dispose of Your Computer?