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Recycling Computers
Whether a company sells, donates or disposes of old IT equipment, it encounters two major risks: secure removal of data and proprietary software, and responsible environmentally sound handling.
Many computer parts contain toxic elements that are potentially damaging to the environment. Legally, the lead and mercury found in CPUs and monitors are considered hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. All products which are not suitable for reuse are properly disposed of in the most environmentally-friendly manner possible.
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Studies estimate that 315 to 600 million desktop and laptop computers in the U.S. will soon be obsolete. Less than 10% of discarded computers are currently recycled. Discarded computers and other consumer electronics (so called e-waste) are the fastest growing portion of our waste stream -- growing almost 3 times faster than our overall municipal waste stream.
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At AMC, being environmentally conscious is paramount. AMC's in-house environmental engineer is responsible for implementing all recycling procedures that must comply to government environmental regulations as well as adhere to electronics recycling associations guidelines.
The initial disassembling occurs at our own site before distributing the parts to the appropriate recyclers. We make sure that all items that are disassembled will go only to certified recyclers. Downstream accountability is the focus for recycling any items. All materials that leave our premises for recycling are given only to our certified partners who fill the following requirements:
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compliant with government regulations
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no export of hazardous waste (definition under the Basel Convention)
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employee health and safety laws, regulations and standards are enforced
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no use of prison labour
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can provide a certificate of recycling
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nothing goes to a landfil
Our environmental engineer will ensure that you will also receive a certificate of recycling and destruction as well as a detailed disposition report, guaranteeing that all materials down the line will be handled within our strict criteria. Our engineer is also responsible for periodically auditing our recycling partners to make sure that our requirements and criteria are continually complied with.
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