Computer Recycling Simplified

Chris Rodinis
November 28th 2012

Twenty-five states including California have passed laws making computer recycling mandatory.
These regulations protect the environment and human beings so reusing and recycling is the only way to dispose of your old worn out used computer without liability.

Simple Procedure Number 1: Secure Data Disposal

For many reasons, including identity theft, the first thing to remember when getting rid of your old computer is to remove all confidential information. Before you begin that process, you probably should copy or backup your files onto a cloud service or a compact disk so your new computer can store that information.

Just deleting your files will not actually remove them. A “best practices” method is to overwrite the hard drive, at least a few times and then, if you are donating it, you can reload your OS.

Based on recent research here are some programs that can accomplish the task of secure data destruction:

1. DBAN—–is freeware. Instructions are simple: download an .iso file, burn it to a compact disk, then boot the computer using DBAN when the BISO screen appears.
2. Active@KillDisk—unless you are a secret agent for the DoD this is also free and gets the job done very well per user reviews.
3. WipeDrive is used by the big boys, conforms to DoD and costs about $19.95.

Simple Procedure Number 2: Donate When You Can

Remember the Golden Rule? Do unto others as you would have them do unto you?
What is best for the environment and mankind is to donate your computer rather than recycle it. Here are some donation avenues that would be a good place to begin.

1. The National Cristina Foundation website maintains a nationwide database of  non-profits, such as schools and community centers, that accept computer donations.
2. The Dell Goodwill partnership at over 2,500 locations nationwide will make sure your computer is reused if at all possible and also will provide a tax receipt.
3. Here is a good source for computer donation information: www.techsoup.org

Simple Procedure 3: Use a Responsible Recycler

Here is a short list; however for starters, the EPA website list recyclers by state and California DTSC lists them by county.

 

1. “R2 or E-Stewards Certified” recycling companies are certified by third party auditors and audited on a yearly basis.
2. Best Buy, the big box retailer will responsibly recycle all your electronics any day of the week.
3. Dell. If its a Dell and you live “out in the country,” you can mail it back for free! If you use Dell and have another brand computer you can mail back for free if you purchase a new Dell.
4. Apple’s recycling program will estimate your computers resale value and even give you an Apple gift card equal to that value. And you even get a free shipping label!

Just in case you were wondering…..what is a “responsible recycler?”

A responsible recycler is defined as one that securely handles your confidential data; safeguards against environmental dumping by never using a landfill; plus the recycler’s downstream partners never use a landfill; the employees of a responsible recycler are protected from toxic and hazardous substances that electronics contain; ensures that the computer is not exported except for reuse; does not use prison labor, background checks employees and maintains a large insurance policy in case of unforeseen damages.

For more information about responsible computer recycling:
www.EwasteWiz.com