Computer reuse is twenty times more energy efficient than recycling.
Read the report on benefits of computer reuse: Download... (1 MB PDF)
Electronics Environmental Benefits Calculator
The EPA developed an app to help calculate environmental benefits of computer reuse: Download... (1 MB XLS)
Give your old computers a new home
RECYCLEvs.REUSE... CHOOSETOREUSE
Recycling is good. Reuse is even better. Recycling keeps electronic equipment out of a landfill, but is short-sighted considering the far-reaching benefits of reuse.
What's the difference?
Reusing just one computer with a CRT monitor saves:
30 lbs of hazardous waste
77 lbs of solid waste
147 lbs (17.5 gallons) of water from being polluted
32 tons of air from being polluted
1,333 lbs of CO2 from being emitted
7,719 kilowatts of energy (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency)
Really, it's a win-win. There are great benefits to each.
Benefits of Computer Recycling
It's easy on the environment. No hazardous materials are exported and no parts end up in landfills.
It helps others learn. We recycle all PCs in-house as part of our hardware skills training program.
We recycle printer cartridges and cell phones, too.
Benefits of Computer Reuse
It's more earth-friendly than recycling. Reuse extends the life of a working computer.
It helps underserved communities worldwide. We send refurbished computers to schools and organizations in developing countries around the world.
It provides valuable training. All computers are refurbished by local low-income volunteers as part of our hardware skills training program.
