Zero Landfill Policy

A study done by the National Safety Council found that three-quarters of all computers purchased in the United States are sitting in storerooms, attics, garages and basements. Odds are, you've got an old monitor or obsolete computer lying around somewhere in your basement. But if it has little or no value, or you don’t want to trade it in, what do you do? Recycle it!

Computers and related electronic equipment contain substances such as glass, plastics and certain chemical compounds that are highly recoverable, recyclable and reusable. By recycling your old equipment in a responsible manner, you can prevent the release of harmful substances into the environment and help maximize the use of our natural resources.

Did You Know?

CRT computer monitors contain significant amounts of lead, a hazardous substance that can be harmful if improperly disposed.
Flat-panel display computer monitors contain mercury.
Printed circuit boards contain hazardous substances such as lead, chromium, cadmium and mercury.
Batteries in electronic and electrical products may contain lead, mercury and cadmium.
Even the plastics used in desktop and notebook computers as well as display monitors contain hazardous flame retardants that are harmful to the environment.

When released into a landfill, these chemicals can harm public health and the environment. So, when your old technology is no longer useful to you, we urge you to help protect our environment by ensuring it’s reused or recycled.

You can use K12 Solutions’ trade-in to get money back for your old computer. Or, to find an organization that takes working computers for reuse, or to locate an electronics recycling service in your area, explore these choices.

eRecycle.org is a partnership between government, manufacturers, retailers and the environmental community that provides guidance and information to consumers about recycling electronic waste. Earth 911 for a ZIP code-driven search for resources or call their toll-free number 1-800-CLEANUP for assistance.

The National Safety Council lists electronics recyclers by state. The International Association of Electronics Recyclers offers a search engine for recycler companies and locations.

More About Recycling Your Old Computer

Some communities have set up services for electronics recycling through public waste management and recycling programs. There may be ongoing or periodic service, like a collection event, in your community. Contact your local solid waste and recycling services to find out more.

To choose a recycler, check to make sure that the firm meets all applicable state and local laws and that it properly manages the recovered materials. It's good to ask a recycler how they recycle it—to be sure parts are not land filled or shipped to overseas markets where environmental laws are nonexistent or not strictly enforced.

MY ACCOUNT