Chris Rodinis
http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/afp/130213/recycled-computers-offer-hope-romanias-needy
Reusing Computers
The EU has Germany but it also has Romania. In spite of its poverty, Romania is pushing forward with recycled computers. A new program is putting used recycled computers into the hands of unemployed adults and lower-income youths to help them in their careers.
“People joined forces and created a win-win situation that gives everyone a chance,” said Elisabeta Lacatus, a teacher in the eastern city of Galati.
The Workshop Without Borders in Bucharest is providing used computers to all youths including young handicapped people and those in “trouble.”
The students are taught to fix and use the computers which helps them get a job.
For the past three years the program has enabled 80 students to find jobs in their community or nearby.
Computers by Donation
“The used computers — donated by embassies and firms like retailers Carrefour and Auchan, the Dacia subsidiary of carmaker Renault and energy giant GDF Suez — are then gifted to local schools and communities after their makeover.”
As a way to support the organization the program also sells some of the refurbished computers to the local market. Since only 13% of e-waste is recycled in Romania, there is opportunity for real growth with this program.
Every year in Europe 10 million tons of e-waste is generated. This material contains toxins and precious metal, which if not processed properly can cause environmental and health problems.
100 Tons and 1,380 Computers
In 2011, the program collected over 100 tons of e-waste. And also handled the donation of 1,380 computers from NGO’s (non-governmental organizations)
“In our school, most of the kids don’t have toys at home because their families can’t afford them and many families have no electricity nor running water, so you can imagine they don’t have a computer either,” said physical education teacher Nicolae Ciocan.
“I don’t have a computer at home, so I’m very happy to learn here,” said 10-year-old David, while drawing a house on the screen.
For more information about e-waste or computer recycling please visit:
www.EwasteWiz.com