Recycling Computers :: Recycle Reuse Reduce

Recycling Computers (this paper includes survey and results) In order to keep up with technology, computers must be replaced every few years. Most people simply throw away their old computers and other electrical parts because they are unaware of the environmental problem arising everyday from the careless disposal of electronics. In order to prevent the destruction of the environment people must be educated in two areas; what is in the computer itself that makes it harmful to the environment, and what are the steps in disposing of technology properly. The first step in prevention is through education. The purpose of this document is to educate the consumer on this importance of this issue and what steps they can take personally to help prevent the problem in the future. Today, there is more than two million tons of electronic waste consuming space in the United States’ landfills. Most people however, do not see this as a problem. What most consumers do not know is that computers and electrical components contain toxic materials such as lead, calcium, and mercury that are leaching into our countries landfills. For example, a computer monitor itself may contain up to eight pounds of lead. When twenty students were surveyed on toxins found inside a computer, it was observed that the majority knew there were toxins inside. However, thirty-three percent did not know. When asked what specific toxins can be found inside, the majority of the students were correct with their responses of all three toxins. Did you know that there are hazardous materials in computers? No Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Which ones specifically? Mercury Calcium Lead All Three Mercury Lead All Three Mercury All Three Mercury All Three All Three All Three The more important issue that must be addressed is if people are aware of the fact that they can actually recycle their own old computers. The majority of people are unaware of the fact that computers are in fact recyclable in their entirety. Most old computers end up collecting dust simply because they are outdated and better technology is available. When twenty students were surveyed on whether or not they knew computers were recyclable, seventy percent answered that they did not think computers were able to be recycled. The following chart shows the results. Were you aware that computers are recyclable? No Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No No No No No No There are multiple organizations that are set up strictly to help people find electronic recycling information and choose the best method of disposal that is appropriate to their specific needs.