Computer and Electronics Recycling

Time for another GREEN update. One of the toughest things to Reduce/Reuse/Recycle is old computers and other electronic items. Well, I just discovered a terrific resource in Berkeley that should take care of all of your needs--the Alameda County Computer Resource Center.


The ACCRC will take your old computers and laptops for free. They will even "degauss" (aka clear the hard drive) for a small fee of just $10. They use this impressive instrument with massive electromagnets to clear all your old files and information. Then, they take the old computers and get them up-and-running on a basic Linux system so they can then be donated and re-used by a school or a non-profit or some other needy organization. (Do you need computers for your org? Give them a call!)


Most electronic items with a plug--from cell phones to TVs to toasters--will be accepted free of charge. If you live in Berkeley, they will even pick-up the stuff for free! But, being a non-profit, they will happily accept any donations you can make. The only thing they can't accept is large household items like washing machines, air conditioners, dishwashers, and things of that sort. Visit their website to find out what they do with all this stuff.




There is a ton of great information on their well-written website, but there is one more thing you should know. ACCRC founder James Burgett has just been chosen by CNN as an environmental hero for their current Planet in Peril series.

If you have other questions about recycling and going green, let me know. I'm always happy to help. I can be reached at 510-547-5970 x57 or MSmartt@jps.net.