Can I throw an old computer into regular trash?

Question

I have an old desktop computer (like 10 years old), which does not work anymore. How can I dispose it? Can I just throw it into a trash container? Or are there any rules for recycling it?

Answer 1

There should be an electronics recycling deal in your town. There are so many deadly toxins in computers, including lead and mercury, which is bad of water, bad for soil, and causes so many problems when it gets into people's bodies.
Check through your phone book or check for recycling.

Answer 2

Before doing that, check with as many computer stores as you can, and with your local waste recycling depot. Computers contain poisonous materials which can leach out into the landfill and cause damage to plant and animal life. Some stores, some recyclers, some towns and cities have a way of disposing of computer hardware properly - that goes for printers, scanners, and monitors as well as the main unit.

Answer 3

No. Your municipality should have special days that you can put out stuff like that for pickup...

or you most likely have to find out where your local transfer station is (place where all the garbage goes before it gets sent to the dump) and take it there directly. There is usually a charge for this by weight.

Another option is to separate the electronics from the plastic.
If you can fit the plastic in a garbage bag, you can put that out with your regular garbage. The monitor definately should be taken to the transfer station.

The transfer station must have the ability to take the electronic equipment. In larger cities, not all transfer stations will take everything. Some are specialized.

The best way to find out more information regarding this is to find your city/town's official website. They should have the information you require.

Answer 4

There are no hazardous materials located inside the computer case, so throwing it in the trash is acceptable. The monitor is considered hazardous if it's a CRT (Tube Type). There are chemicals inside the CRT that should be disposed of properly.

Answer 5

You should have a recycling center in your neighborhood. Why put it in a landfill if you don't have to?

Answer 6

Ask a friend to have it.
And tell them it works.
Tell them no give-backs.
[face_mischevious]