How to Safely Dispose of, Donate or Sell Your Old IT
The problem itself is toxic: The United States generates more than 11 million tons of e-waste per year, including computers, office equipment and small IT devices that are at the end of life.
Much of this cast-off technology contains hazardous substances that can contaminate soil and underground water sources.
According to the World Health Organization, environmental toxins found in e-waste include “lead, cadmium, chromium, brominated flame retardants, or polychlorinated biphenyls.”
What can school districts do with used technology that is no longer cutting-edge? Here are four ways to safely ditch those IT antiques:
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Take Advantage Manufacturer Take-Backs
Twenty-eight states and the District of Columbia have passed legislation requiring manufacturers to take back equipment that has reached the end of life. Some manufacturers offer voluntary take-backs in states without such laws.
Others, such as Acer, Epson, HP and Samsung, offer take-back programs that let businesses return retired equipment at drop-off locations and through the mail. Contact IT makers directly for information about individual take-back programs.
Find a Certified E-Waste Recycler
Known as e-Stewards, these recyclers possess a certification developed by the Basel Action Network and the e-Stewards Founders to identify the most globally responsible recyclers. Certified e-Stewards meet the e-Stewards Standard and the ISO 14001 standard for global environmental management.
By using a certified recycler, companies can safeguard against the illegal dumping of hazardous waste in developing countries. A list of e-Stewards recyclers and their contact information can be found online at e-stewards.org/find-a-recycler.
Donate IT to Charities
Some charities, including Goodwill and the World Computer Exchange, accept used technology to resell or reuse. Goodwill partners with Dell’s Reconnect program to accept all brands of used computers and accessories. Equipment can be dropped off at any participating Goodwill donation center.
The World Computer Exchange accepts mail-in and drop-off donations to help “young people in 3,300 schools, youth centers, libraries and universities in 47 countries,” according to its website. To make a large donation, contact the Exchange before sending in the gear.
Resell Tech to Maximize ROI
Resell outdated equipment online using the OfferUp and Gone mobile apps. OfferUp recreates a trustworthy, safe experience with standards for transactions and behavior.
The Gone app assesses potential customers for used electronics, sells and then ships the items. Gone also provides free shipping and boxes.
And, of course, there is always Amazon, Craigslist and eBay, though Craigslist requires an in-person transaction.
