Computer Recycling Benefits

Most people have the impression that a computer will always be able to hold a high residual value even after the system is a couple years old.  Unfortunately this is not true because of the high amounts of new technology flooding the market every year.  Almost every computer is worth only a fraction of the original purchase price even after the first year.  Older computers are quickly becoming obsolete to make room for the faster, higher potential systems.  

Computer recycling helps out more than just your company, office, or home. It helps to clean up the environment by reusing and disposing of equipment properly.  Millions of computers and office equipment are being dumped into our landfills every year with the potential of leaching toxic metals into our water supply.  By recycling, all hazardous metals are extracted and plastic pieces are removed and reused to make new products.  This means less trash to be disposed of.

Did you know...

• More than 3.2 million tons of electronic waste is laid to rest in landfills each year.
• Nearly 250 million computers will become obsolete in the next 5 years.
• Many people discard computers every 3 to 5 years.
• In 2001, only 11 percent of personal computers retired in the US were recycled.

TVs and computer monitors can contain an average of 4 pounds of lead (depending on their size, make, and vintage) as well as other potential toxics like chromium, cadmium and mercury.