Computer Recycling for the Future: What Dell and Others are Doing

As a company offering computer recycling, we encourage both consumers and businesses to recycle their old electronics in order to keep them out of landfills.  This is extremely important because our world depends on technology and as we upgrade products; our earth can become toxic due to the sheer amount of e-waste that we dispose of.  Recycling is the only solution that makes sense if we are going to help the earth to become and stay healthy. 

When you are done using an old computer, appliance, cell phone, or television you should recycle it with a reputable company to make sure that it doesn’t end up buried somewhere.  We have several methods for recycling, work with charities when possible, and keep e-waste out of the ground and our waterways. 

Some companies are improving their practices to make computer recycling easier than ever.  We provide pick up services for certain businesses in addition to holding collection events.  Companies like Dell are becoming more sustainable by incorporating recycled parts into the new computers that they sell. In July of this year, Dell released the OptiPlex 3030 all-in-one computer that is made out of recycled plastic derived from old electronics. This is their first attempt at using closed-loop recycling for manufacturing an actual computer.  The concept of closed-loop recycling is interesting because by using the same quality plastic from old devices it reduces the amount of new or virgin material that must be used.  This is a pilot program so we are watching to see how it catches on and if they can apply the process to all of their devices. 

Other companies have implemented a similar concept by using closed-loop recycling for printer cartridges and other small items.  HP, for example, has been leading the charge on this type of recycling with over 75 percent of their ink cartridges containing the recycled plastic. The company estimates that by using this process, plastic could be recycled five to seven times – an amazing feat. Figuring out this process has been more difficult when it comes to computers and at this time Dell is the only one really using the closed-loop process for new products. We assume this is due to a more difficult engineering and manufacturing process.

When buying a new computer consider looking at the Dell model as a way to promote computer recycling at the purchasing level.  Simultaneously, you can recycle your old device by dropping it off at one of our collection events or contacting our office.  When we take in a computer, we evaluate whether or not it can be fixed and repurposed.  Oftentimes, old computers can have a second life with charities, schools, and even local kids that don’t need a high-speed device to type up their homework.  By keeping them operational, we keep them out of landfills.  When this isn’t possible, we look for parts that can be reused in another capacity.  With any leftover parts, we use responsible computer recycling methods that keep them out of the landfill. 

Creating a Computer Recycling Program for Your Business

Businesses can help the environment by establishing a computer recycling program.  This will prevent old computers and used electronics from ending up in landfills.  E-waste is incredibly toxic and tossing inoperable or outdated computers into the garbage only contributes to what is becoming a massive global problem. 

As manufacturers release new products at cheaper prices, it frequently becomes easier for a business to buy a new and faster device than repair or upgrade an old one.  This has led many businesses to get rid of computers that are even a few years old in favor of newer, sleeker models.  Imagine the number of companies in the U.S. alone.  If everyone is throwing away old computers that is a lot of toxic waste entering our landfills. 

Fortunately, there is a better way.  Computer recycling is both easy and possible.  Here is how you can establish a program for your company. 

• Determine when a device should be replaced.  Create guidelines that define when a computer or other electronic device should be upgraded.  You can tie this to the amount of memory it needs, if it is operating as fast as you want, etc.  Speak with your IT department to identify when it is best to upgrade and create a written policy around it so that employees are not requesting new computers simply because a better quality monitor was released. 
• Establish protocols.  When you are getting rid of a computer, there should be a set of protocols to follow that include wiping the hard drive of any sensitive information.  Assign a person inside your organization with the task of making sure that this is done prior to disposing of the computer.  
• Create a list of recycling options.  There are several ways you can recycle an old computer.  The easiest one is to call Green Tree Recycling because we can work with you and depending on the area, we will even pick up the old computers so that you don’t have to worry about dropping them off yourself.  In our program we donate used devices to schools along with liquidating them. You can also donate old computers to organizations like Goodwill or a local shelter.  You can further engage your employees by creating the list of approved donation spots and letting them decide who they want to work with. 
• Start a donation day.  If your company has a version of spring cleaning where you identify old devices, furniture, supplies, and products that you no longer need – create a donation day and encourage employees to participate.  Ask them to bring items from home that they want to recycle and arrange for all of the electronics to be picked up.  You can also have a charity organization pick up the remaining items so that you know they are going to benefit someone that needs it. 

Establishing a computer recycling program is one way that your company can make a difference.  Recycle items whenever possible and prevent e-waste from entering our landfills and creating additional pollution.