7 Reasons You Should Recycle An Old Computer

Computer Recycling

Advancement in technology continues to grow at a galloping rate, such that every year better models of computers are released. This in return renders the old models obsolete, and since they cannot be thrown away as trash, computer recycling becomes a better option. Computer recycling refers to giving old computers to your local waste facility for the disassembly of components, which can be reused as raw material for a new purpose.

According to a research that was conducted by UNEP, the world wide scale of total waste generated by computer products annually is approximately 49 million metric tons. This makes computer recycling an important move, considering the rate at which they are manufactured. Here are some of the reasons why computer recycling is important.

Benefits of Computer Recycling

  1. Recycling Old Computers Helps to Conserve Natural Resources

When the disassembly of components is done, a lot of materials can be recovered from the old electronics. These materials can be reused as raw materials to make new products, thus reducing the need and the cost to mine new materials. For instance, the metals recovered from computer’s circuit board can be recycled to make new circuit boards for other electronics.

  1. Recycling Old Computers Can Help Protect the Environment

Recycling is very environment-friendly, as it prevents hazardous waste like carcinogens and lead from entering the atmosphere. Many old electronics contain harmful materials like lead and mercury, and if disposed of improperly, may harm humans or the environment. Instead of dumping them or keeping them in the house, recycling them is the most appropriate option.

  1. Computer Recycling Creates Local Employment

Considering that more than 90% of computer products are recyclable, recycling can play a very fundamental role in creating employment. This is guaranteed, because new firms dealing in electronic waste recycling will emerge and the existing ones will continue to grow. This can be boosted by the increase in demand for computer recycling.

  1. Computer Recycling Supports the Community

As part of social responsibility, donating old computer products can play a significant role in the growth of the community. Old computers can be donated to low-income families to enable them to have access to technology they could not have afforded otherwise. These computers can also be refurbished and used in schools or in charitable organizations.

  1. Eco-Friendly Benefits

The level of electronic waste being dumped on a daily basis heavily affects the environment. With time, the waste grows until it limits the natural resources by taking up space. If these toxins infiltrate the water system, they can cause water pollution. Recycling can help reserve these consequences and protect the environment from pollution.

  1. Economic Benefits

Recycling old computers does not only do the environment a favor, but your pocket as well. Nowadays, many retail shops are offering trade-in options where you take an old electronic and trade it with a new one at a very friendly cost. Buying a new one is quite costly, but trading with an old one benefits both the manufacturer and the consumer.

  1. Recycling Helps Reutilize Resources

Recycling helps in the utilization of materials used in the initial manufacturing process. Many parts of computer hardware are reusable, and recycling them prevents them from going to waste. When recycling is done, fewer resources and energy are needed to manufacture the same products.

Instead of keeping the old computers that are just attracting dust in the house, it is advisable to consider recycling them. This is extremely beneficial to both the environment and the surrounding community.

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