A recent report released by the Wall Street Journal declared e-waste “the world’s fastest growing and potentially most dangerous waste problem”. E-waste applies to a wide variety of electronics from televisions, to old game systems, to computers, and monitors. Recently, there has been a large focus on recycling computer monitors due to the amount of lead and other toxins that are present in the units. They also contain cathode ray tubes, which can be found in televisions.
When it comes to recycling CPUs, many people are afraid that hackers and identity thieves will obtain their information. Even if the data is erased from the hard drive, it is still accessible for those who know how to retrieve it. To avoid this hazard, it is recommended that you remove and destroy the hard drive before submitting the unit for recycling. Then you’ll know that your information is safe and you can recycle with ease.
The trick to recycling e-waste is to know what is and isn’t acceptable. Because each location seems to have its own set of rules, it is best to check before loading up the lorry. Some of the most common acceptable items include:
Personal computers, laptops, monitors, keyboards, mice, mobile phones, copy machines, fax machines, LCD screen/flat screen monitors, DVD players, networking equipment, portable electronic devices, projectors, VCRs, radios, stereos, telephones, pagers, vacuums, microwaves, power supplies, servers, HUBS, rechargeable batteries, medical equipment (non-hazardous), printers, scanners, modems, cameras, and televisions.
Also be sure to check if there is a fee for certain items. With new legislation, these fees are becoming more common.
For more information on recycling e-waste, visit: ec.europa.eu/environment/waste/weee_index.htm
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