By Scott Erickson, HP Environmental Initiatives Manager, PSG Consumer Products
Like a lot of other folks, I seem to be collecting more and more computer "stuff". For a while the old stuff tended to trickle down to the kids and get used, but now the old products truly are at the end of their useful life. As a family, we are
dedicated recyclers, with regular trips to the nearby recycling center and
everyday items in the curbside tub. But the electronic equipment posed a problem, because neither of these recycling facilities accepted them.
Luckily there are a number of convenient options I found that anyone can take advantage of. But before recycling an old computer, it also makes sense to see if it has any value left. Major PC companies like HP offer a variety of programs for products nearing the end of their useful life. Through HP's trade-in program you may qualify for money back on your old equipment, whether or not they are HP branded, that can be used to purchase a new HP PC. Or HP can help you donate your old gear to a worthy organization and qualify for a tax benefit.
Like a lot of other folks, I seem to be collecting more and more computer "stuff". For a while the old stuff tended to trickle down to the kids and get used, but now the old products truly are at the end of their useful life. As a family, we are
dedicated recyclers, with regular trips to the nearby recycling center and
everyday items in the curbside tub. But the electronic equipment posed a problem, because neither of these recycling facilities accepted them.
Luckily there are a number of convenient options I found that anyone can take advantage of. But before recycling an old computer, it also makes sense to see if it has any value left. Major PC companies like HP offer a variety of programs for products nearing the end of their useful life. Through HP's trade-in program you may qualify for money back on your old equipment, whether or not they are HP branded, that can be used to purchase a new HP PC. Or HP can help you donate your old gear to a worthy organization and qualify for a tax benefit.
If your old PC or printer has truly breathed its last breath, then recycling it responsibly is the right thing to do. Many electronics retailers, such as Staples, have drop-off services at their stores. Customers can walk in to their neighborhood store, pay a modest fee, and drop off their old computer equipment for recycling. If you check their web sites in advance, they often have promotions running for money off new products when you bring in your old for recycling. So make recycling your old electronics a part of your plan when you're ready to upgrade and you might be able to save some money.
Most of the major PC companies have recycling programs as well. I recycled an old desktop computer with HP's on-line recycling service and it was truly hassle free. You follow the easy instructions, pay a modest fee, box up the product and leave it on your front porch. UPS comes to your home to pick it up - and that's it! HP then sends you a coupon good for future purchases on their on-line store. The coupon value is typically close to that of the recycling fee, making the service virtually free. This is a great option if you don't live close to a retailer, or if you are looking to buy a new PC. By buying the right products and utilizing these programs, we can lessen the impact of the old "stuff" in our lives and sometimes save a few dollars to boot!
Scott Erickson
HP Environmental Initiatives Manager
PSG Consumer Products
Comments
Leave a comment