Getting rid of old electronics, particularly computers, is a huge issue for large businesses. Sarbanes-Oxley mandates that these companies take reasonable steps to destroy any data on their computers, as they can be liable if confidential data is retrieved from these devices. In some places, such as California, there are also regulations against simply throwing those devices away, because many of them contain hazardous materials.

Corporate Recycling (PC Magazine)

Today, the EPA will launch a campaign aimed at reducing the estimated 150 million cell phones that are simply thrown away every year. Also, a quick Google search easily located electronics recycling events. In fact, events in Knoxville in the coming week actually have door prizes for recyclers, and an event in Maryville, Tennessee, will include free cups of coffee for people bringing in electronics to be recycled. In St. Petersburg, Florida, an event that benefits the St. Petersburg College’s Women on the Way program will be held late this month.

E.P.A. Seeks New Life for Old Cellphones (New York Times)

Taking out the techno-trash (Knoxnews.com)

Recycle your computer, help women’s program (St. Petersburg Times)

Getting rid of computers is somewhat difficult for my organization because of state regulations regarding the disposal of equipment by higher education institutions. Most of the time, we simply wipe out the hard drives (the most painful and time consuming part of the process) and donate them to K-12, but otherwise, we have to package them up and send them off to auction, as state regulations forbid us from selling them in any other way. How do you dispose of old electronic equipment?