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Why Recycle FAQ

These are just a few common questions about Recycling.

Isn't my equipment worth something?

·        With the cost of new computer equipment dropping lower and lower, your used equipment is worth less and less, to the point of being worth only pennies. The resale market for used equipment in the United States is extremely low and even though you may have paid a thousand dollars for the equipment you are replacing, the current system requirements to run most software cannot be met by older machines.  Who would pay more than a few dollars for a used machine with no software, when a brand new computer can be purchased for as low as $500.00 loaded with software?

·        The equipment might ultimately be worth something that is better not measured in dollars but in other ways.

o       A functional PC is donated to a 3^rd world country, given to a poor family or community, where a new one can’t be afforded.

o       A functional PC which can access the internet or run word processing applications can be donated to a low income neighborhood church, or battered women’s shelter, which otherwise might not have the money to purchase new systems. 

o       A properly recycled PC will recycle precious metals, or prevent toxic material, like lead from a monitor from leaking into the water system or the soil, lowering quality of life and medical dollars being wasted.

What’s the big deal? I am just going to throw my computer and monitor in the garbage or the empty field down the street!

It IS a BIG deal! Ever hear about “Lead Poisoning” in paint and children? Each CRT monitor can contain between 3 to 8 pounds of lead in it!

Is there a cost to dispose of my electronic equipment?

For environmentally responsible electronics recycling, there is a cost.  This is due to the low residual value of old electronic equipment, the cost of removing and properly managing the hazardous materials contained in the equipment, ensuring that any proprietary data is completely destroyed and maintaining a facility that adheres to best-in-class environmental, health and safety standards and regulations.

Can I donate?

Donation is a great alternative. But there are many questions and concerns to raise. For instance:

1.      Who will ensure that proprietary data is eliminated before the donation?  (It is the responsibility of the DONATOR to take care of that. Data and files that are released in any way can lead to corporate or individual liability). In this day and age of security and data theft, this is a major issue.

2.      Who is responsible for the software and licensing? (To not break the law, and install Microsoft windows, you need the original licensing material transferred with the computer).

3.      Does the equipment meet the performance level the accepting donation company requires?

4.      If the equipment does not meet the needs of the accepting donation company or when it becomes obsolete, then who is responsible for it's recycling?

What are the environmental risks to improper disposal?

Cutting corners on electronics recycling can lead to environmental liability down the road.  Equipment that is not handled by a qualified electronics recycler can end up in embarrassing places.  Stories of this type abound including equipment stacked in a field in a county in Maryland, monitors pulled from the Potomac River, and storage units filled and abandoned. 

Protect your company!  Choose your recycler carefully!

What risks/liabilities might there be with the improper disposition of electronic equipment?

·         Environmental liability

·         Privacy (data security!)

·         Technology transfer to unwelcome parties

·         Public perception (bad publicity)

·         Government perception (bad publicity, fines/penalties)

To ask your own questions, or share any knowledge and information you have, please visit our forums section and participate!