How to Recycle that Obsolete Computer 

These days, computers are becoming outdated faster than last year's wardrobe and recycling that vintage 386 may not be as easy as you think. 

Recycling an outdated computer involves pulling out the parts to be reused or resold, and separating other parts by metal or plastic to be sent off to processors. 

According to the consumer Electronics Manufacturers Association, growth in computer sales has increased by more than 23 percent per year since 1985, with 44 percent of American households now owning computers. U.S. sales of personal computers grew from 3.2 million units to 12.8 million units from 1985 through 1998. But these numbers only begin to reflect the rate that old computers are replaced. Most businesses replace their computers every 2-3 years. 

While businesses are required to recycle computers, EPA regulations allow households to throw computers away as household hazardous waste, which can contribute a significant amount of lead to the municipal solid waste stream. 

Leah Jung, principal of Vista Environmental, a consulting firm that helps organizations reduce waste and maximize value from their electronic equipment, offers some helpful advice for the eco-minded computer owner. "There is a bit of a misconception that it's easy to donate used computers," Jung said. "Today's level of technology creates a desire for better equipment. Many computers simply cannot be upgraded to a level that a modern nation would want to use." 

Jung says there are several options for donating an old computer. Among them: 

 - Ship the computer overseas to a third world country. 

 - Refurbish or upgrade the computer. 

 - Use the machine as a training tool for underprivileged people for skills in the computer     industry. 

If you decide to recycle your computer, there are several things to consider. First and foremost, it is important to realize that unlike your grandmother's prom dress, your outdated computer is never going to be back in style. 

"The best way to manage old computer equipment is to recycle it as soon as you realize you are not going to use it anymore," Jung said. "It costs more money to tear a computer apart if it is older." 

Next, Jung recommends choosing a recycling company that will manage the equipment properly. New computer recycling businesses are popping up every day. With the impending Y2K bug, lots of computers will be discarded and businesses are catching on. But according to Jung, some recycling businesses may not do a competent job. "Be sure the parts and materials from the computer are actually recycled and not land filled," she said. 

Recycling an outdated computer involves pulling out the parts to be reused or resold, and separating other parts by metal or plastic to be sent off to processors. Jung said a small amount of material cannot be recycled and should be disposed of properly. "To do the job cost effectively as a business, you need a large volume," Jung points out. 

To date, there is no comprehensive list of computer recycling companies. For more information on computer recycling in your area, Jung suggests contacting your state recycling coordinator.

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