Sometimes called “e-waste” which includes gear like computers, imaging and audiovisual equipment.
Worth Knowing
Computers, printers, TVs, DVD players and other electronics are a huge part of a growing problem known as ‘e-waste’. Some industry professionals estimate that e-waste is growing at 3 times the rate of normal waste. The majority of computers that are thrown out come from large organisations and institutions.
Dumping computers and other electronic equipment in landfill not only wastes resources, it leaches poisonous chemicals such as lead and cadmium into the environment. Computer monitors, for example, can contain over 1 kg of lead. These chemicals do not break down easily and instead build up in living organisms including people – to toxic levels. So electronics in landfill is very bad news.
Electronic equipment can often be reused. For example, some equipment can be repaired or rebuilt by charity organisations who then donate them low income earners or resell them to raise funds for disadvantaged people.
Even if not reused, most equipment can be separated into components and these recycled separately. Copper is recovered from wiring and cables, steel is recovered from cases, gold and other metals can be recovered from circuit boards. Plastics can be recycled from keyboards, monitors and cases.
Worth Doing
Before you Buy
Look for repair-ability, upgrade-ability and recycle-ability before you buy any new equipment. This can save your business lots of money over by slowing down your equipment turnover and sends a strong message to retailers and, ultimately, manufacturers.
Keep an eye out for any local organisations that may be able to make good use of your old equipment. Schools, child care centres, seniors centres and churches are often able to use or find a home for working equipment.
Check out the Recycle @ Work list of WA organisations currently accepting computing equipment for recycling. Most charity collections will accept electronic equipment such as unwanted TVs, stereos and video recorders.
Dell has launched a computer recycling programme in several cities in New Zealand and Australia, including Perth. Their toll free number is 1800 465 890.
Save your equipment up and include it in your next residential kerbside collection
Call your local council and ask for information and support on how to recycle electronic equipment.
For more information contact the
Recycle @ Work Hotline on 1800 819 000.
