How to Recycle Computers

Published: January 15, 2021

It’s not uncommon for people or businesses to have a stash of old PCs or Mac computers sitting in a closet or garage and getting dusty. Instead of taking space in your office or home, why not recycle old computers instead? You may not know how to recycle computers, but it’s simple and gives you the peace of mind that you’re doing the right thing for the planet.

Why Use Computer Recycling?

So, why should you recycle old computers? Why can’t you throw them away, toss them in a storage space, or simply forget about them? Maybe you could even resell them to a neighbor or friend and make money? 

These are all viable things to do with old tech, but you’ll understand how beneficial it is once you see how to recycle old computers.

Here are just a few reasons you should recycle old computers.

• Keep computers out of already crowded landfills.
• Contribute to possible refurbishment of your old tech so someone else could benefit from it. 
• Free up space in your garage, office, or storage space.
• Lessen your carbon footprint on the planet. 
• Computer recycling lowers air pollution.
• Materials in computers may be harmful – those don’t need to be sitting around in a landfill or even in your home.
• Your data could be breached, which could cause a host of problems for you, such as identity theft or credit card theft. 
• It’s actually illegal in some states to throw away computers. 

How Do I Find Computer Recycling Near Me?

So, you’re convinced now that recycling tech is the way to go. However, now you have to figure out how to recycle computers. Where do you recycle computers? What should you do with it? How do you find computer recycling near me? Here are a few places to start when it comes to how to recycle computers. 

First, contact nearby electronics stores and office supply shops. They likely know where you can take your tech for computer recycling. They may even have their own recycling program and would be happy to take your old computers off your hands for you. 

You can also search online for nearby recycling centers for tech. You’re likely very close to one and never knew it. Check the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) website for where to recycle computers. There may even be options for you to make some money from your old electronics. 

Make some calls, check some websites, and find out your options before deciding how to recycle computers.

Before You Recycle Old Computers

Now that you know how to recycle computers, you can’t just grab your PC and stick it in your car. You’ll need to ensure that all of your private data and information is gone. You can purchase software to erase data. You could take your computer to a professional data erasure service to ensure your classified information is gone.

Or, you can restore your computer to its factory settings. Make sure you remove any personal storage from your computer and remove any discs or plug-ins that you installed. Your computer should pretty much be bare bones at this point. When it comes to how to recycle computers, the process is simple and won’t take too much time, but the rewards are great.

For more information about recycling your computers, contact PlanITROI today.