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Disposing of Old Tech: Sustainable Recycling Options for Computers and Printers
Decluttering your living space and getting rid of outdated technology, such as old laptops, desktops, or printers, can be challenging. Many individuals find themselves holding onto these unwanted devices, unsure of the most appropriate disposal methods. However, numerous straightforward and eco-conscious solutions exist for recycling electronics during your spring cleaning or any time of the year.
According to a recent FASTNET survey, a significant portion of the US adult population, approximately 31%, still retains unused older devices, including laptops, primarily due to uncertainty regarding their proper disposal. The survey further indicated that while 29% of respondents utilize recycling services for old tech, a concerning 19% resort to discarding devices in the regular trash. It’s crucial to note that improper disposal of electronic waste, or e-waste, is illegal and can result in substantial penalties in certain regions.
Recycling computers and printers can be a simple process, often involving drop-offs at major retailers such as Best Buy, Office Depot, and Staples. In some instances, these establishments may even offer store credit for trading in your old equipment.
Below is essential information on how to recycle your outdated technology effectively. For related information, explore resources on recycling old phones.
Preparing Your Computer for Recycling
Prior to taking or shipping your devices to recycling centers, safeguarding your personal data is paramount. The most effective method is to perform a factory reset on your computer. Consult our comprehensive guide for step-by-step instructions on completing a factory reset.
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Retailers Offering Computer and Printer Recycling Programs
Several retail chains provide recycling services for computers and printers, although service availability and conditions may vary.
Apple Store
Apple Stores facilitate free recycling of Apple computers, monitors, and peripherals like printers. However, this service is contingent upon purchasing a new qualifying Apple computer or monitor. Alternatively, consider Gazelle, a third-party company that purchases used MacBooks for recycling. Upon accepting Gazelle’s offer, you can download a prepaid shipping label or request a prepaid box to send in your device.
Related Reading: Phone and Laptop Repair Gains Momentum with iFixit’s Initiative
Best Buy Stores
Best Buy generally accepts up to three household electronic items per day per household for complimentary recycling. This includes desktop computers and printers, along with a diverse range of electronics from e-readers to vacuum cleaners. For laptops specifically, Best Buy increases the limit to five units per household per day. Monitor recycling policies and associated fees may differ based on location. Best Buy also provides a mail-in recycling program for select items, which requires a fee. A small box accommodating up to 6 pounds is priced at $23, while a larger box (up to 15 pounds) is $30.
Office Depot Stores
Following the merger of Office Depot and OfficeMax in 2013, both retailers now feature a tech trade-in program available both in physical stores and online. This program potentially allows you to exchange old computers and printers for store gift cards. Devices lacking trade-in value are accepted for free recycling. Office Depot also sells branded recycling boxes in various sizes for purchase. Customers can fill these boxes with electronics and return them to the store for recycling. Small boxes costing $8.39 accommodate up to 20 pounds, medium boxes priced at $18.29 hold up to 40 pounds, and large boxes, at $28, can contain up to 60 pounds of electronics.
Staples Stores
Staples retail locations offer free recycling for desktop computers, laptops, printers, and other electronics at the checkout counters, regardless of the purchase origin. Staples also promotes a free at-home battery recycling box initiative. According to a company representative, this program has significantly increased battery recycling rates, from a previous average of 50 batteries weekly to thousands. Consult this comprehensive list for a detailed overview of recyclable items at Staples.
Related Reading: Step-by-Step Guide to Factory Resetting a MacBook, Windows Laptop, or Chromebook
Locating an Electronics Recycling Center Near You
If major retail recycling options are inaccessible or you prefer specialized recycling centers, online search tools from Earth911 and the Consumer Technology Association can help identify nearby facilities that process computers and printers.
Earth911 Recycling Center Locator
Utilize the recycling center search tool on the Earth911 website to locate nearby recycling facilities. Searchable by ZIP code, the tool identifies centers that accept laptops, desktops, and printers. Be aware that some search results may include locations that handle only mobile phones, requiring some filtering to pinpoint appropriate centers.
Greener Gadgets Recycling Center Finder
The Consumer Technology Association’s Greener Gadgets Recycle Locator assists in finding local recycling centers for old electronics. The search function includes filters specifically for computer and printer recycling locations, enabling targeted searches.