How to Donate, Reuse, or Recycle Your Old Computer

Buying a new computer? Don't know what to do with the old one?

You don't need to store it in your attic or put it on the curbside. Need someone for monitor disposal? There are many organizations that can find a new home for your computer, safely dispose of your monitor-or at least recover some of the valuable materials inside-before it reaches the landfill. Because you're here at our website, you may want us to handle it for you. We are the monitor disposal experts. Many cities use us for monitor disposal and reuse of discarded computers. You can call our Tujunga, California facility at (818) 951-0943 and we can make arrangements to handle your e-waste. But, we're not the only resource available to you.

Donation of Computers to Schools, Charities, and Nonprofit Organizations.

According to Dataquest, a market research firm, less than 5 percent of all personal computers are donated to schools, charities, or nonprofit organizations. It's possible that this percentage will increase, particularly now that Congress has introduced tax breaks for the donation of personal computers to schools.

The Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 states that companies that donate personal computers to schools qualify for an enhanced charitable deduction benefit. The law, introduced by Representative Randy Cunningham (R-California), expands tax incentives for private companies that donate computer technology, equipment, or software to K-12 classrooms. The act took effect January 1, 1998 , and applies to computers less than two years old.

It is now a crime to throw computer monitors in the dumpster, set them on the sidewalk, or hide them in your trash can. As of November 1, 2001, California can charge you up to $1,000 per instance for improperly disposing of your used computer equipment. An online directory of agencies that facilitate the donation of used computers to schools and community groups is available at the following Web sites:



National Technology Recycling Project

Los Angeles County Information

Reuse

Charitable groups, such as ourselves and Goodwill Industries, accept older equipment and refurbish it for resale to individuals or donation to schools and nonprofit organizations. There are also companies which buy used computer equipment and refurbish them for resell with a warranty. They don't pay much, but it's still money.

The Easter Seal Society of California has a program that places computer systems with children and adults with disabilities.

Recycling

If your older computer isn't worth donating or reusing, you can recycle it. Computer components may contain small amounts of gold, silver, and platinum in the printed wiring boards and connectors. The metal is difficult to separate from the rest of the materials, some of which is hazardous. Electronics recycling firms, and most state and local governments, have collection days and may be able to take your equipment-even if no one else will.

If you would like more information about safe monitor disposal and organizations near you that accept computer equipment for donation, reuse, or recycling, please give us a call.