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Computers
The cost of a new computer -- even a decent used one -- is out of the
financial reach of many individuals and non-profit organizations. Next
time you upgrade, why not pass on your old one to a worthy cause
instead of letting it sit around collecting dust?
Keep in mind that most places that accept donated computers have some
standards about what they'll take. If your computer is really old or
just not working, you may have to take it to the hazardous waste center
in your community.
Before exploring the links below, why not contact your local public
schools to see if they'll take your old equipment? They are often very
grateful for such donations.
California, multiple offices: California Lawyers for the Arts
California, East Palo Alto: Plugged In
New York, New York: multiple locations
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: University of Pennsylvania
National Programs:
National Cristina Foundation - they take Macs, too
Share Technology - multiple links
Staples
- will take back your computers (as well as printers, faxes, and
monitors) for recycling for $10. Might be a good lazy option if no one
else wants it.
MACS
Not everywhere that takes computers takes Macs. But these places do:
California, Brea: Komputers 4 Kids
National: MacTreasures.com connects donors of Mac computers with schools that need them.
Super old Macs: Really
old Macs (Mac SEs, 128s, etc.) can be turned into MacQuariums -- yes,
it's just what it sounds like. Find out how to make one here, here, or here.
Super old PCs:
California, Livermore: The Vintage Computer Festival collects super old computers. Check out their wish list.
If your computer is beyond the donating stage, you must at least take
it somewhere to be disposed of properly. Computers contain all kinds of
nasty hazardous chemicals and whatnot. You can go direct to the
manufacturer:
Apple recycling program
Dell Recycling Program
Hewlett Packard Product Recycling
One last thing: if you really want to help out, don't upgrade until you
have to. And when you do upgrade, buy used! Hundreds of millions of
computers are already in landfills, and even when you turn in your
computer for "recycling" there's no guarantee the toxic metals --
including mercury -- in your outmoded machine will be handled
correctly. Check out Computer Take Back for all the ugly details.
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links
What can you do right now to help the environment? Drop a line to save some of nature's BioGems.
It happens to us all: you've got
stuff you
don't
want anymore, don't need anymore, or never liked to begin with. Whether
you're motivated by a natural sense
of thrift, an environmental conscience, a desire to help others -- or
all three -- here are some suggestions as to what to do with many of
your unwanted items.
Hope they help!
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