DailySouthTown.com - January 2006

Electronics recycling

By Donna Vickroy
Staff writer

There are many ways to recycle computers and other kinds of e-waste.

Some computer companies, such as Dell (www.dell4me.com/recycling) and Hewlett-Packard (www.hp.com/recycle), sponsor in-house recycling programs.

If the only option is to trash the equipment, beware: Many communities do not allow computers to be tossed in with everyday trash.

Intercon Solutions, a Chicago Heights company (708-756-9838) that recycles e-waste for individuals and other companies, receives more than 200,000 pounds of computers, TVs and other electronic equipment slated for recycling each week.

Computers contain lead, which can be hazardous when released in a landfill. Consumer electronics, the company's Web site states, account for 40 percent of lead found in landfills.

Waste Management will not dispose of old computer hard drives in landfills.

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency coordinates one-day household waste collections each spring and fall. Contact the agency at (217) 785-8604.

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