Minimising E-waste - what do to with your old computer

Just a few years ago, you would never have used a laptop for heavy graphics gaming and the SmartPhone pretty much resembled a brick

. However, the fast pace and quick adaptation of new technology means we've had to upgrade our equipment every few years. Of course, as we update to the newest iPhone and opt for the latest e-readers and high powered notebooks, the question remains: what to do with the old equipment?

E-Waste - a growing problem

Each year, 17 million television sets, computer equipment and other electronics are sent to landfill. Many of them are still in good working order, but have been chucked away in favour of the latest models. Of greater concern is the many materials used to make electronic equipment that include toxic components such as mercury, cadmium, radioactive isotopes and lead. These can leach into the soil and come to contaminate our waterways. A number of notable environmental organisations, as well as computer manufacturers themselves, have set up electronic collection schemes to help address the growing e-waste problem. Here are a few to make note of:

ByteBack

Operating out of Victoria, ByteBack was established by Sustainability Victoria in 2005 in conjunction with major computer manufacturers. This computer take-back program helps consumers safely dispose of their used electronic equipment at a local centre. The equipment the centres take in is then broken down into components for recycling.

Green PC

Computers that are still in working order can be donated to charities like Vinnies or the Salvation Army. Meanwhile, Green PC refurbishes donated units for distribution to low income communities and organisations.

Recycling Centres

In 2008, Environment Minister Peter Garrett opened the largest e-waste recycling plant in Australia. The centre in Villawood has been taking in over 10,000 tonnes of e-waste each year - and it has the capacity to accept more. However, increased awareness of these recycling plants is paramount to e-waste being disposed of properly. PlanetArk has an easy to access list of recycling centres that accept e-waste in your local area.

Computer finance - a more environmentally friendly solution?

If you want to stay up to date with the latest computer equipment, leasing technology could be a great way to upgrade hassle-free. When you sign up for computer finance, you pay for the use of the equipment throughout the lease term - you can then return the equipment and upgrade to something new. Meanwhile, the finance or rental company will donate or recycle the returned equipment, so you don't have to worry about the potential environmental hazards of your computer ending up in landfill.

Minimising E-waste - what do to with your old computer

By: Eva Jio

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