Hundreds of materials in PCs, including chlorinated and brominated substances, metals, gases, acids, and plastic additives, are highly toxic. The only challenge is letting the public know about the dangers that old computers pose to the environment and the fact that old computers still have value. Schools, community groups, and senior homes are all in dire need of this still very useful equipment. Even with the expected holiday period slump, US home computer sales for all of 2000 will still rise by more than 21 million additional units this year. We want to make sure that the US doesn't end up with 20 million or more computers clogging landfills.
Most people mistakenly assume that just because they have outgrown a computer, it is worthless.
The reality is that thousands of schools, community-based organizations, and other groups can get much good use out of your old computer. Even if it is no longer satisfactory for you, your computer may still do a world of good to others. Contact your local schools, community groups, and senior centers. Keep in mind that your computer is no friend of the environment. Though the PC industry is thought of by most people as green, the reality is that the industry does a lot of polluting.