Donating Old Computers
You might be tempted to toss old computer equipment in the trash. However, even if a computer is too old or slow for you, it may still be useful to others. Below are some suggestions.
If you decide not to donate your computer, be sure to dispose of it properly. Computers and monitors should not be discarded in your regular trash or recycling due to the heavy metals they contain. See the related information below.
Donations
You can ask organizations in your local community if they would be interested in your computer, or you can contact a national organization like the ones below. Be sure to erase your computer completely before donating it.
Computers for Schools
www.pcsforschools.org
National Cristina Foundation
www.cristina.org
Share the Technology
www.sharetechnology.org
Disposal/Recycling
Many manufacturers have their own recycling programs, or you can use the information below to find a local recycling center.
BU-owned equipment:
If your computer was purchased with Boston University funds, you should follow the instructions at www.bu.edu/recycling/OffCampus.html#Computer.
Faculty, Staff, and Student-owned equipment:
According to BU's "Greening the Campus" website:
Students who have small electronics to be recycled must drop off items at 704 Commonwealth Avenue in the drop-box. Larger items, like computer monitors, must be brought to the 2nd floor to the Office of Environmental Health and Safety. Faculty and staff also have this option, but for small electronics (excluding printing cartridges -- separate protocol explained below), they may also fill out a form at www.bu.edu/recycling to have the electronics picked up. For large equipment, they can call Trucking at 617-353-2117 to arrange for a pick-up, and there will be a small fee for the labor.
For more details, see www.bu.edu/green/waste/.
