by Maura Grunlund / Staten Island Advance
If you were gifted with a new computer or other electronics and you're thinking of cleaning house for the New Year you might want to consider recycling those items.
Electronic garbage is becoming one of America's fastest growing problems. E-waste is estimated at four percent of the US municipal solid waste and growing at an accelerated rate, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency and Fast-teks computer service company.
On Staten Island and New York City as a whole we are permitted to put electronics out with the trash until July 1, 2010. However, reusing and recycling are ways to keep hazardous materials out of our landfills and, ultimately, our environment.
Many major manufacturers and retailers have take-back programs for used computers and other electronics. The city Department of Sanitation used to have special recycling events for these items but so far hasn't scheduled any for 2009 due to budget cuts.
Equipment that is less than five years old often may be refurbished and donated to non-profit organizations.
Before tossing or recycling a computer remove all personal and business information. If you're donating make sure all the accessories such as monitor, keyboard, mouse and software packages are included. Keep a record of your donation since it is tax deductible.
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