Computer technology advances at a rapid
pace, and today’s state-of-the-art machines can quickly become
tomorrow’s outdated relics. Practically speaking, this means that many
technologically oriented businesses have lots of old machines in storage
that no longer serve a useful function. Instead of keeping obsolete
equipment around, it makes much more sense to take advantage of local
recycling programs.
Discarded
computers and peripheral equipment belong to a class of material
commonly known as electronics waste or E-waste. Examples of this
material typically accepted at recycling centers include desktop
machines, laptops, batteries, hard drives and motherboards. Safe
disposal of these products is critically important, since they contain a
broad range of highly toxic chemicals, including substances such as
mercury, cadmium, lead, beryllium and hexavalent chromium. In addition,
an improperly disposed battery from a laptop or desktop machine can
explode if exposed to fire. Plastics inside a discarded machine can emit
toxic fumes when burned.
One
of the chief reasons why it makes sense for a business to recycle old
computers is to reduce any need for onsite equipment storage facilities.
Outdated machines can easily pile up and take away space from other
current or planned activities. Periodic recycling can clear out this
space and make it available for income-generating use.
Proper
recycling of E-waste also makes sense because much of this material may
not actually be worthless. When safely broken down and separated, many
of the materials used to make computers retain a significant amount of
value. Some processing centers have programs that pay cash for any
reusable materials. Even when monetary rewards don’t factor into the
equation, a business can substantially boost its reputation and
community standing by donating unused computers and other electronics to
a local nonprofit organization. Such a donation may also qualify for a
business for a tax deduction.
It’s
illegal in many jurisdictions to put scrapped computer equipment in the
trash with everyday household waste. Proper E-waste recycling limits
the chances that the dangerous chemicals in old machines will leech into
groundwater supplies. By making sure that proper disposal takes place,
businesses act as good neighbors to the other members of their
communities. In addition, they also avoid the penalties and reputation
damage that come with breaking the law.
Businesses
that recycle their electronics can also promote conservation efforts by
reducing the need to allocate new resources for the computer
manufacturing process. In addition, businesses that properly discard
their old equipment help support the viability of recycling companies
that handle E-waste, and thereby help support their area’s local
economy. Visit this site for more information on why computer recycling in San Jose is actually an intelligent move for your business.
