Somewhere between 14–20 million computers are discarded every year in the United States. It is estimated that by the year 2005, there will be 55 million computers in our country’s landfills. It is hard enough to figure out how to recycle office paper and soda cans—just what are we supposed to do with an old phone, computer, fax machine, copier, printer, monitor, or any other outdated electronic device?

Well, if you’re like most Americans, you will burrow it away and forget about it—like a squirrel with a nut. Only, unlike the squirrel, you won’t want to dig it up later on, and it won’t turn into a tree either. It won’t go away—only gather dust and become even more useless as newer and newer technologies are developed. Electronics lose most of their market value after one year. After the equipment is totally obsolete and totally grimy, you’ll probably stick it with your waste and that’s the end of your story. But, as you know, that’s not the end of the story.

In addition to the sheer volume of electronics waste—and we haven’t even mentioned medical equipment yet—we need to recognize the toxicity of our high-tech products. Computer monitors are made up of approximately 18% lead to protect us from ultraviolet radiation. That means, over 4 pounds of a 25-pound monitor is lead, and that’s not counting the tin-lead solder alloy used to join computer components to printed circuit boards. The lights in our computers, laptops, digital cameras and other equipment often contain mercury.

Fortunately many schools and small businesses could benefit from our outdated electronic equipment and with the Internet, it is now much easier to find a home for discarded gizmos.

To reuse or recycle? In the case of electronic equipment, it is generally better to refurbish it for reuse than to scrap for parts, provided it is not too old. The reuse of the equipment eliminates need for reprocessing, and will extend the life of the product before having to recycle for components.

So how do we know if our equipment is good enough to donate?

The Electronics Industries Alliance is a group made up of 2,100 high-tech companies. On January 31, 2001, they launched a website that enables users to search by state for reuse and recycling opportunities for their electronics. This site will link you to other interesting locales to learn more about electronics waste and how you can do your part to simultaneously make less of this waste while helping others. As part of the plan, manufacturers will print the EIA website on packaging for new products. The Alliance can be reached on the ‘net at: www.eiae.org, or by telephone at: 703-907-7500.

If the EIA does not have solutions that work for you, try a few of the sites listed below. All are committed to making further use of second-hand equipment and reducing e-trash.

www.donateaphone.com—This campaign collects wireless phones to benefit victims of domestic violence. For people in this desperate situation, cell phones can be lifelines, enabling them to call for assistance when faced with an emergency situation. Check website for collection points in your state.

www.cristina.org—The National Cristina Foundation is a not-for-profit foundation that provides computer skills training for people with disabilities. NCF can make use of a broad range of used but functioning technology. 203-863-9100.

Computers 4 Kids (www.c4k.org)—The mission here is to help people of all ages acquire the technology and skills they need to succeed, by providing equitable access to technology resources in homes, schools and communities. Reach the Computers for Schools Association at 800-939-6000.

National Recycling Coalition (www.nrc-recycle.org)— The NRC, through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, has developed a searchable database of recyclers, reuse organizations and municipal programs that accept old electronic equipment. Click on the green ball and then check under NRC Programs, then click on Electronic Recycling. 703-683-9025; email: electronics@nrc-recycle.org.

Janet Brown is the medical Waste Manager for Beth Israel Medical Center, New York City. Beth Israel is firmly committed to reducing the volume and toxicity of its waste stream. Many of the strategies that work for Beth Israel can also work for you.