Recycle Computers, Electronics and TVs

Get rid of your old PC the PC way
"You just got a shiny new desktop or laptop computer from Santa. It runs circles around your old computer. But now, the eternal question: How do you get rid of your old machine? You shouldn't put it in the trash. Computer components are toxic. Instead, there are environmentally friendly options." --Kim Komando, USA Today

Some ways to recycle electronics

We now recycle computers and other electronics (except TV's -- see below) at Happy Trails. The collection box is in the Pony Express Room, which is behind the HTCA Office. It is open during regular office hours. A list of items that will be accepted is posted there and at bulletin boards around the resort.

Green PC: How to dispose of unwanted tech equipment without hassles, and where to find great new environmentally friendly gear. --Jamais Cascio, PC World

Dell has partnered with Goodwill Industries to recycle PCs and other unwanted electronics. The operation is called RECONNECT They are only active in a few locations today (Feb. 2007), but expect to see more as they get underway.

ObsoletePC.org is a little laptop centric, but they have some good ideas about recycling PCs too.

Recycle TVs

There are several pounds of lead in an old TV (in the glass CRT), plus a lot of other toxic materials. A few companies now have responsible recycling programs. The only ones I know of now (2008) are Sony, LG, Zenith and GoldStar. The Electronics TakeBack Coalition has more information on the whole "disposable" electronics mess, and some helpful solutions.