UserIntervention

As the holidays are quickly approaching us, this is the time of year when many computer purchases will be made. People will be buying desktop and laptop computers as gifts for their children, spouses, or favorite tech guys like me. I am sure we can all appreciate the excitement of opening a new computer box and unwrapping the shiny new computer that will help you get to the Internet faster or access e-mail, stocks, or even play the most explosive new games at lightning speed. Prices of computers are coming down faster than many of us can blink. And trust me I have tried blinking faster, it simply cannot be done. So what are you to do with your 8-year-old ancient dinosaur of a computer that is still running dial-up software to get to the Internet? If you do not plan to force that computer onto your kids then the obvious choice is to properly dispose of the computer.

Where Can I Donate or Recycle My Old Computer and Other Electronic Products?

I went searching online for places that would be happy to recycle your old computer and I found a helpful site which is run by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. There are many helpful tips on how to properly recycle your old electronics. Since many of these devices contain metals and components that could be hazardous to our Earth, let alone who wants to fill up landfills even more than they already are, you will want to make sure your old computer is properly disposed of. There are many valuable links on the U.S. EPA site that will get you right to where you want to go. You may also check with local agencies to find out their recycling opportunities. Many cities offer a service like this as well as they are eager to help protect the Earth.

Donating your computer is also an option. There are many organizations that will find a good home for your computer that may help someone who would not have the opportunity to own a computer any other way. Computers With Causes is one such organization. Instead of keeping your computer in the basement to collect dust for the next two years, donate it to a charity group like this to help others in need.

No matter what you do, you do not want to simply throw away anything that can be recycled or donated. Even if you no longer find value in the device, someone else will. If you know of any other organizations that can help with recycling and/or donation efforts let me know. I would love to highlight them here.

___________________________________________
Mark Blair
Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/iammarkblair