Green Computing
- 2. What is Green ComputingGreen Computing is the study and practice of designing, manufacturing, using, and disposing of computers, and associated subsystems such as monitors, printers, storage devices and communication systems.The goals of green computing are to reduce the use of hazardous materials, maximize energy efficiency during the product’s lifetime, and promote recyclability of factory waste.
- 3. How to recycle computersLook for a school or a charity that is willing to except your old computer,Some computer makers, such as apple, will except your old monitor back for recycling, if you buy a new computerYou can also go to electronictakebackcampain.com which list various recyclers online.
- 4. Why not just throw computers awayUnfortunately in the most past, most old computers and their accessories have ended up in landfills.When some of the objects that are used to make a computer end up in landfill’s, they tend to break past the landfill and leech into groundwater supply.
- 5. Hazardous materials inside computersToner CartridgeInk-Jet CartridgeComputer MonitorComputer CPUCablesLaptop BatteriesKeyboard & MouseModemPrinter
- 6. The Dangers of Those ObjectsComputer Monitors – Monitors often have toxic materials such as mercury, cadmium and chromium, all which are hazardous to the environment.Computer CPU – The computers CPU, contains another mix of tonic substances, including cadmium in semiconductor chips and mercury in switches on the printed circuit boards. Printed circuit boards also contain lead. If ingested, cadmium can damage your kidneys; mercury can cause neurological damage; and lead can disrupt brain neurotransmitters.
- 7. SOLUTIONMake sure, first, that you can't get more life out of your CPU by adding memory or hard-drive space. Like a monitor, this piece of equipment may be of use to a charity or school before it ends up in the trash. If you donate this item, make sure you remove all personal data from the computer first. Major computer makes, such as Dell, have programs to help you dispose of this e-waste. As with computer monitors, check out organizations such as SVTC or the Electronic Takeback Campaign for responsible recyclers.