Northwestern
University is committed to lessening our carbon footprint and being part
of the solution. In an effort to keep computers out of the University's
solid waste stream, University Services offers a computer recycling program,
or "eCycling," for faculty, staff, students and commercial tenants.
Why Recycle?
Electronic equipment contains metals and other materials that can be hazardous to human health and the environment if they are not properly managed.
Are there really that many computers being thrown away?
According to various reports, electronics comprise approximately 1-4 percent of the municipal solid waste stream. With the National Safety Council projecting that nearly 250 million computers will become obsolete in the next five years, the number of computers that need to be disposed of will only continue to grow.
What does a computer have to do with the environment?
Computer monitors contain an average of four pounds of lead and require special handling at the end of their lives. In addition to lead, electronics can contain chromium, cadmium, mercury, beryllium, nickel, zinc, and brominated flame retardants.
For more information on the environmental impact of electronics, visit the EPA website.