Perhaps you are thinking your home computer has outlived its usefulness. Perhaps you are thinking you want to upgrade your machine and/or operating system. But, what do you do with your old computer? Tossing it in the nearest garbage bin is not an effective means of disposal nor is it environmentally friendly. The answer is recycling.
You could take your old computer into an eco-station where it would be pulled apart; the metal and plastic components could be reused. One association, however, has found a more creative way to recycle old computers. The Electronic Recycling Association (from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada) donates these unwanted machines to those in-need, explains Mitch Stenton. “Anyone that has a need that, for some reason, doesn’t have the means to provide for themselves with some of this equipment. We help out all sorts of charities all throughout Alberta and across the country. People post requests and anything we can do to help them out, we do our best to achieve this.”
Quite often, these old computers function just fine; it is just a matter of owner preference to upgrade to something with more bells and whistles. But, for many, even a basic model of computer can be pricey so donating is a worthy undertaking.
Should you be starting to window-shop for a new home or office computer, also shop around for a new home for your current system. Many individuals and associations would be delighted to adopt your computer – your old equipment will serve as brand-new equipment for many. Approach non-profit groups, seniors’ homes, community groups and public schools (with classes resuming in a couple of months, the timing is perfect). Remember to erase your computer’s memory to completely dispose of any personal information that you may not wish to share.
Why not follow the example set by the Electronic Recycling Association? Help save our planet and lend a helping hand by donating your old computer to someone else.
