Will I get in trouble if I don't recycle my old computer and just through it away?

Question

Will the garbage man still take it?

Answer 1

A garbage man doing might take it but not if he knows why it is against the law to take it! But forget the law for a moment...

You might not "get in trouble" in the conventional sense of being told off by someone of authority. You will, however, get us (and you are included in us) in trouble as the state of the planet deteriorates another step further. It would not take too many people throwing away their computers to make this step noticeable and costly.

Check out http://www.wiserplanet.org for more information about the effects we are having on the planet. The recycling section might prove informative.

Hope you make an informed decision that you would be able to defend it in front of someone you were trying to impress!

Answer 2

There is an organization that will recycle computers and monitors.  They collect them and donate them to developing countries.  Here is their web link: http://simplyhelpnjny.blogspot.com/2003/...

Answer 3

I kind of doubt he'll take it. The monitor has chemicals that are extremely toxic.  We're not allowed to throw them away at work, we have to give them back to our vendor, and they recycle them.

Answer 4

Simple answer - would he take an old TV set?

Probably not.

If you are in Europe then you can get firms to deliver and they should remove your old equipment if you request it under EEC recycling laws (as they also do with Fridges and Washing Machines), though many charge for this they have had free removal offers as they have to meet their EEC targets.

A laptop you could get away with - I know those don't get noticed even though they should.

Answer 5

The best thing to do is get your local phone book and look up the refuse department and ask them what the procedure is in your city.  In a city near where I live residents can arrange to have monitors or TV screens picked up for recycling but they have to call and arrange it.

Answer 6

why would you not recycle it?  it is not a huge effort for such a large contribution. be good.  it is your planet too!

best wishes.

Answer 7

Donating is the best option.  E-Waste is incredibly horrible for the environment.  Most e-waste is shipped to developing countries.  It's pretty easy to find recycling centers nearby you.  Check with your yellow pages, retailer, or recycling plant.  Please take the extra step and either donate or recycle.

Check this video out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sl2j83LCH...

Answer 8

I would defiantly call around. You can call the company that picks up your trash.they will know what you have to do with it and/or who to call. I think you can get in trouble if they catch you throwing it away. I know a neighbor of mine was throwing away his computer and I saw him wrapping it up and hiding it in his trash can. I wouldn't recommend doing this, it's not good for the environment! Good Luck!