We think about recycling our glass, newspapers and plastic, but where do you think all of our old office equipment winds up?
An estimated 80,000 tonnes of electronic waste is dumped into landfills each year. And not only is it the fastest growing type of waste in the world, it is more toxic than normal household rubbish.
According to eDay, a not for profit recycling organisation, computers and other electronic devices can contain toxic heavy metals such as cadmium, lead and mercury. The plastic casing and wiring of computer equipment can also contain hazardous materials, such as brominated flame retardants.
A 2006 report estimated that there are 16 million electronic devices currently in use in New Zealand. Today, much of this equipment is now reaching the end of its life and is being disposed of in landfills.
However, recycling safely your old machinery is fairly easy. Items in good condition can be donated to genuine charities through www.donatenz.com or sold on www.trademe.co.nz
Dell offers free recycling of its own PCs for consumers, otherwise there is a nationwide network of drop off locations for e-waste recycling.
This initiative, called RCN e-Cycle, is not for profit so only charges a small amount for recycling (just enough to cover its costs). In Auckland, the centre is located in Albany on the North Shore.
For more information check out www.e-cycle.co.nz and www.eday.org.nz
