Reuse and Recycling
Donating or recycling computers can be a rewarding activity, but make sure that it’s done right, and the they’re put to good use or recycled properly. Talk with the recipient or recycler, and make sure that you understand what they’re going to do with them. Remember, you’re helping them, and protecting the interests of your company.
U.S. EPA information on Donating and Recycling Used Computers
Visit: http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/hazwaste/recycle/ecycling/donate.htm
EPA’s "Do the PC Thing"
Provides information on reusing and recycling computers. Use the version that’s best for you.
Tech Soup Ten tips for donating a computer
Visit: http://www.techsoup.org/learningcenter/hardware/page5496.cfm
Other Tools
Indiana Recycling Coalition’s recommendations on reusing computers
To find out about companies that provide refurbishing and reuse in your area, use the ZIP code search feature at http://www.earth911business.org/
Or check the Directory created by the Indiana Recycling Coalition: http://www.escrapindiana.org/reuserecyclers/directory.html
For data security purposes, the software is often completely removed from computers that are donated. To provide computer recipients with basic software, Microsoft has teamed up with Tech Soup to refurbish and install licensed operating systems and standard software such as word processing programs on eligible donated computers. See this link for more information: Microsoft Authorized Refurbishers Program FAQs
