The Importance Of Computer Recycling: Why Anyone Should Do It
Computer recycling is the process of disassembling old computers and reusing or repurposing the components and materials. As the world becomes increasingly digitized, our reliance on computers grows as well. In 2020, it was estimated that there would be more than 2.7 billion personal computers in use worldwide.
But what happens to all of these computers when they become outdated or broken? Most people just throw them away. Unfortunately, this is not a sustainable solution. Computers contain a variety of toxic materials that can leach into the environment and cause serious harm. This is where recycling comes in.
The benefits of computer recycling
Here are some reasons why you should recycle your old computers:
1. It helps reduce e-waste.
According to the EPA, in 2012 alone, over 2 million tons of electronic waste were generated in the United States. That’s 6.8 pounds per person per day! And that number is only going to increase as more people buy new electronics every year.
2. It saves valuable resources.
All those old computers contain metals like gold, silver and copper that can be reused when recycled properly.
3. It helps prevent pollution
It prevents pollution from harmful heavy metals like lead and mercury that are found in many computers and other electronics. When these metals get into landfills, they can contaminate groundwater supplies and cause health problems for humans and animals alike.
4. Keeps air clean
It helps keep our air cleaner by preventing smoke stack emissions from burning toxic materials at landfills where e-waste is disposed of without being recycled first (which is usually how it happens).
How to recycle your computer
Sometimes, the best way to go green is to go old. When it comes to recycling your computer, there are a number of ways you can get involved. Do you know how to dispose of a hard drive? We will let you know how::
- Find out how much money you can get for your used computer by checking out this list of recycling centres that pay for old computers.
- Before selling or donating your old computer, ensure you wipe all your personal data from it. This can be done by formatting the hard drive and reinstalling Windows with no operating system (called a “clean install”). If you don’t feel comfortable doing this yourself, many local computer repair shops will do it for free or just a few dollars.
Conclusion
The benefits of computer recycling are far-reaching. Society, the environment, and the economy all benefit when computers are properly disposed of.
For more information visit our website!
