Computer recycling

A typical computer processor and cathode ray tube (CRT) monitor contain five to eight pounds of lead and other heavy metals such as cadmium and mercury. Even small quantities of these persistent toxins can reach harmful levels over time because they accumulate in the fatty tissues of animals. They also increase in concentrations as they move up the food chain. They have been linked to certain cancers as well as nervous system, reproductive and developmental problems. In Massachusetts, televisions and computer monitors are banned from landfills due to their lead and heavy metal content.

Recycling computers also reduces the need for new materials. When a computer or television is recycled, valuable materials such as gold, copper and silver are recovered for reuse. This diminishes the need for mining and also lessens pollution.

If a recycled computer is still in working condition, it will likely be cleaned of any data and sold, usually to people in the developing world. Non-working computers are broken down into their component parts. Some components may be sold as parts while others will be melted down for reuse.

Computer recycling is expensive. Most towns and cities don't have the funds to pay for it without charging a fee. The valuable materials inside a computer can be sold, but the process is labor intensive and requires shipping. CET's collection in 2004, pictured at right, was free, thanks to a grant from Dell Computers.

Learn more about recycling your old computer when you purchase a new computer from Dell. There are other computer manufacturers who also will recycle your old computer when you buy a new one from them, regardless of your old computer brand name. Investigate before you buy!

In Berkshire County

CET can help residents and businesses responsibly recycle computers. If you have multiple computers or televisions, contact Jamie to arrange for dropoff or pickup.

There are several other options for recycling computers and televisions. If you are an individual looking to recycle just a few of these kinds of items, try GoodWill Industries of the Berkshires.

Goodwill accepts computers, monitors and televisions from residents, businesses, schools and non-profit organizations. The equipment does not need to be in working condition. They charge a fee to cover their costs.

Locations

• 158 Tyler Street, Pittsfield 413-442-0061
• 150 Howland Avenue, Adams 413-743-8092

These towns offer computer and tv recycling at their transfer stations:

• Becket
• Egremont
• Great Barrington
• Monterey
• Otis
• Sheffield
• Stockbridge
• Washington

They may charge a fee.

Perlman and Sons
This metal salvager in Pittsfield accepts computer parts, including towers, hard drives, keyboards, mice and other electronics, except for televisions and computer monitors. Call 413-442-7127 to make sure they will accept your items.

In the Pioneer Valley

Most Pioneer Valley communities have a collection area for electronics either at the transfer station or the Department of Public Works. This is often the best option for residents. There are also some computer re-sale stores like College Pro Computers and Amherst Typewriter.

Goodwill Industries of the Springfield/Hartford Area, Inc. is now accepting old computers, monitors and peripherals for recycling. Donated items will be fully dismantled and every piece will be recycled. No part of the computers will be placed in a landfill. All hard drives are guaranteed to be wiped out by partner companies that will certify this process.

There is a nominal fee for recycling your computer system which covers Goodwill's cost of collecting and handling. Computers donated by non-profits will have all fees waived if the donations are delivered to Goodwill's Work Center in Springfield.

Computers can be brought to any of the Goodwill retail stores as well as to Goodwill's Dorset Street Work Center in Springfield. Goodwill retail stores are open daily and located in Springfield, Chicopee, Palmer and Ware.

You may also consider donating a working computer to Hampshire Educational Collaborative.

Businesses, municipalities and institutions may be able to use the recycling facility at UMASS, Amherst to get used electronics recycled. The university will accept truckload quantities (pick-up truck sized or larger) of electronics for recycling on a by-appointment basis. Call 413-545-9615 to set up an appointment and you will also be asked to set up an account with the university's electronics recycling vendor. You will be billed by this vendor for all CRTs, TVs and printers brought to UMASS. Homeowners and other individuals are not permitted to drop off electronics at the university.

Another alternative

Sell or donate old computers. Re-Think and E-Bay have teamed up to make it easier to manage electronic waste.