Spring, 1997
If You Won't Take it Back, Don't Make It!
by Sue Abby
An estimated 10 million PCs are discarded in America annually. With the average new computer becoming obsolete in 18 months and with the rapid growth in the PC market, the number of computers headed for the dump is increasing exponentially. According to a study by Carnegie Mellon University, by the year 2005, there could be as many as 150 million PCs discarded.
Without a comprehensive system of PC disposal in place, our health and environment are at risk from the rapid obsolescence of computers that contain some 700 different compounds (more than 1/2 are toxic).
Curbside recycling may make sense for paper or glass, but PCs are difficult to disassemble. For example, cathode ray tubes (CRTs) used in computer monitors contain a large number of toxic chemicals, including significant amounts of lead which is mixed into the glass to protect users from radiation. Flat panel displays may use fewer toxic materials, but there is no non-toxic monitor.
In Europe PC manufacturers are increasingly being required to take back their used products, which has led to a whole new approach to product design.
While such 'take back' laws do not yet exist in this country, U.S. companies with significant international sales are taking an interest designing products with the ultimate disposal in mind. Since it may be cheaper to design a single product for multiple markets, American consumers (and the environment) may benefit from Europe's stricter standards.
Sue Abby is SVTC Canvass Director & Program Assistant
Action Items:
One U.S. computer manufacturer, Hewlett-Packard, will take back its used machines. Contact Hewlett-Packard Hardware Recycling Organization at 800-535-7933
Insist that computer companies design products with the life cycle in mind. Tell your legislator to mandate take back requirements.
Check out The Green PC for full information on disposal of laptop batteries, ribbon, toner, floppies and software.
Contact Computer Recycling Center, 408-327-1800. Drop off Tues.-Sat., and sale on Sat. 9-1 at 2971 Mead Ave., Santa Clara, CA.
(Sources: Joel Makowers Green PC column, "The Toll of a New Machine", Bay Area Computer Currents, April 17 1995, and The Green PC by Steven Anzovin)
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