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Environmental Services
We are attempting, wherever possible, to find
sources who will re-use old computers, and components.
We will accept virtually all computers and
parts for disposal.
Working VGA monitors, which can still be used,
are matched with interested users & agencies; we will also provide a
small credit according to the quality of the old unit.
If you have any older technology
electronic equipment
for appropriate disposal, let us know and we will be pleased to help.
While computers & components
are the major causes of recycling concern, supplies and expendables
tend to be overlooked:
Following are some items which are of concern:
Computer batteries
contain toxic materials (mercury, etc.) and should be removed and
disposed of separately, through the toxic materials waste centres,
as should depleted smoke detectors -as hazardous waste (the detectors
contain radioactive isotopes!!).
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Floppy disks
5 1/4" -virtually 'extinct' - are they recyclable?
Floppy
disks 3 1/2" - obsolete, being replaced with memory cards
(but don't forget to keep one or two to boot your machine in an
emergency!) - many surplus pieces are available, recycling
will be an issue soon. Erase any confidential data before passing
them on! Power Supplies - the PSU's from desktop units are
usually replaced when faulty without further examination; many could
be readily repaired (it is not considered 'cost efficient'): Do you know of
anyone doing this?? Please give us a contact!
Tape cartridges
- there are many sizes and formats. Re-use, repair, recycle - Any
suggestions?
Laser cartridges
Many models of printer have cartridges
which can be refilled; the spent units are then tradeable for
refills. For older models, we can often locate the cartridges even
when no longer available through retail outlets.
We are advised that, in general, refilling is
no longer economical, as imported non-branded replacements for most
models are cheaper.
We can accept all types for re-use or recycling by approved
centres. |
Inkjet cartridges
Some cartridges can be economically refilled with the proper ink:
care must be taken both in the refill process and in the selection
of the correct ink, and should only be done by professionally
equipped operations (unfortunately, there are many 'corner store'
operations, taking shortcuts with the wrong materials (esp. inks) and using
inferior cartridges). For good quality results, and to avoid damage
to your printer, use only guaranteed supplies from reliable sources.
(The inks are suspensions of fine colour
particles: for your printer to continue functioning properly, the
particles must be small enough to freely pass through the print
nozzles.)
In general, used cartridges should be recycled. We can
accept cartridges for proper recycling.
Partnerships in re-using and recycling
We welcome anyone
wishing to make use of old equipment, or to safely recycle the
materials. Please call us and let us know your interests. |