Goodwill Industries, St. Vincent De Paul Society, Capuchin Services and other major charities have recently adopted policies banning even working computers, citing federal environmental concerns about lead, mercury and cadmium used in the machines.
Computers are our albatross.
The social service organization was forced last year to pay a recycling firm to accept 35 donated computers. But as Metro Detroiters upgrade home systems, thousands try to give older machines to schools and charities. Obsolete computers, software licensing issues and questions about heavy metals may be sending more to landfills. No Michigan or federal regulations actually ban disposal of personal computers, although some rules do exist for businesses. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency scientists say the worst threat comes from color monitors, which contain leaded glass.