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Looking to get rid of a bunch of your old computers at once? It can be a tedious task. Here is how to do it responsibly.
Over 40 billion tons of e-waste is generated worldwide every year. That includes items like mobile phones, printers, and old computers.
Technology moves at a rapid pace, which is one reason there’s so much e-waste. Machines become obsolete, and they no longer work the way they once did. Programs may stop supporting older machines.
In other cases, the machine might break down. The older the machine, the less likely it is you’ll be able to find parts. It’s often easier and cheaper to buy a new computer than to fix up an old one.
What should you do with your old computers and other electronics? You can’t just throw them in the trash. So what do you do?
Our guide will tell you what to do with old computers so you can dispose of them responsibly.
The Importance of Proper Disposal
It’s important to understand why old laptops and other devices have to be handled the right way.
So why can’t you chuck them in the garbage and call it a day?
Most electronic devices contain chemicals and heavy metals that are dangerous for humans. When old computers end up in the landfill, these harmful substances leech into soil and water.
Improper disposal also poses a risk to workers who handle waste. If they’re not expecting e-waste, they may not handle it safely. Without proper equipment, they may be exposed to substances that harm their health.
How to Dispose of Old Computers
Now the question is what do you do with old computer towers, screens, and other electronic waste?
In many places, there are specialized e-waste recycling programs. Depending on where you live, the program might be run by your local government. Some electronics retailers also operate e-recycling programs.
There are also companies that specialize in waste removal more generally. They often offer computer disposal services as well.
You’ll want to be sure the company you’re researching serves your area. For example, if you live in Sydney, you’ll want to learn more about the service in Sydney.
Choosing the Right Service
In many places, you’ll be able to pick from more than one service for disposing of old computers and other e-waste. How do you know which one to use?
Always check that the service provides ethical disposal of any waste. Some companies claim to recycle e-waste, but they dump it in other countries instead.
Some programs abide by guidelines set out by the UN for the responsible disposal of e-waste.
Always ask if a company follows these guidelines. You want to be sure your e-waste is truly being disposed of the right way.
Get Ready for Disposal
Before you dispose of old computers, be sure to take steps to secure your data. You’ll want to wipe the hard drive.
If you’re looking for more tips on how to secure data or maintain your computer, you’re in the right place. Check out our helpful how-tos to keep your computer in great working order.
Over 40 billion tons of e-waste is generated worldwide every year. That includes items like mobile phones, printers, and old computers.
Technology moves at a rapid pace, which is one reason there’s so much e-waste. Machines become obsolete, and they no longer work the way they once did. Programs may stop supporting older machines.
In other cases, the machine might break down. The older the machine, the less likely it is you’ll be able to find parts. It’s often easier and cheaper to buy a new computer than to fix up an old one.
What should you do with your old computers and other electronics? You can’t just throw them in the trash. So what do you do?
Our guide will tell you what to do with old computers so you can dispose of them responsibly.
The Importance of Proper Disposal
It’s important to understand why old laptops and other devices have to be handled the right way.
So why can’t you chuck them in the garbage and call it a day?
Most electronic devices contain chemicals and heavy metals that are dangerous for humans. When old computers end up in the landfill, these harmful substances leech into soil and water.
Improper disposal also poses a risk to workers who handle waste. If they’re not expecting e-waste, they may not handle it safely. Without proper equipment, they may be exposed to substances that harm their health.
How to Dispose of Old Computers
Now the question is what do you do with old computer towers, screens, and other electronic waste?
In many places, there are specialized e-waste recycling programs. Depending on where you live, the program might be run by your local government. Some electronics retailers also operate e-recycling programs.
There are also companies that specialize in waste removal more generally. They often offer computer disposal services as well.
You’ll want to be sure the company you’re researching serves your area. For example, if you live in Sydney, you’ll want to learn more about the service in Sydney.
Choosing the Right Service
In many places, you’ll be able to pick from more than one service for disposing of old computers and other e-waste. How do you know which one to use?
Always check that the service provides ethical disposal of any waste. Some companies claim to recycle e-waste, but they dump it in other countries instead.
Some programs abide by guidelines set out by the UN for the responsible disposal of e-waste.
Always ask if a company follows these guidelines. You want to be sure your e-waste is truly being disposed of the right way.
Get Ready for Disposal
Before you dispose of old computers, be sure to take steps to secure your data. You’ll want to wipe the hard drive.
If you’re looking for more tips on how to secure data or maintain your computer, you’re in the right place. Check out our helpful how-tos to keep your computer in great working order.
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