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Reuse
It!
When you outgrow your computers, cell phones and other equipment, and pass them onto new users, that's reuse. Donating used (but still operating) electronics for reuse extends the lives of valuable products and keeps them out of the waste stream for a longer period of time.
Before donating your used electronics, make sure that:
- The device is undamaged and in working condition;
- You copy and transfer needed files or information; and
- You remove any personal information from the device or request that the receiving organization remove the data. (For specific instructions on how to erase personal information, consult the manufacturer.)
Donating Computers
A working computer is a terrible thing to waste. Donating computers to those who need them is a win for all involved. Reusing computers benefits communities, helps use valuable materials wisely, and keeps working PCs out of the trash. Businesses who donate used computers are helping those who cannot afford the “latest and greatest” obtain access to what is now almost a necessity for business, education and staying in touch. There are many organizations can help you ensure the reuse of your outgrown technology.
Before donating your computer, make sure the equipment is reusable and it meets the requirements of the donation organization. If the equipment is too old, or requires repairs, it may not be economical to fix it for reuse. In that case, you may be better off recycling it.
To learn more:
- Watch the Pass It on Video – This short video features EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson and five of EPA’s Plug-In partners. Learn more about the environmental and economic benefits of donating electronics for reuse.
Pass It On Video (Windows Media Player, 11.67 MB, download player)
Pass It On Video (QuickTime Player, 19.61 MB, download player)
Pass It On (Closed Captioned Devices only)
Video Script - Read Do the PC Thing on how to prepare and donate your computer for reuse.
Do the PC Thing for Consumers (4 pp, 784K, about PDF)
Do the PC Thing for Businesses (4 pp, 930K, about PDF)
Businesses looking for more information on how to reduce potential liabilities associated with donation, data sanitization, and what kind of guidance to provide recipients of electronic equipment, please visit the Federal Electronics Challenge
Web site. - Visit Where Can I Donate or Recycle My Old Computer and Other Electronic Products? to find a donation organization in your community.
Obtaining Donated Equipment
For nonprofits and schools (many of which operate on limited budgets), donated electronics can be a lifeline connecting staff or students to the Internet, word processing, electronic spreadsheets, and databases. Plug-In To eCycling encourages nonprofits and schools looking for donations to consult the following resources:
- TechSoup offers a wealth of information for schools and nonprofits serving low-income communities, including a tip sheet on acquiring donated computers, a listing of computer recyclers and refurbishers, and information on the Microsoft Refurbisher (MAR) Donation Program which distributes donated Windows operating systems to US nonprofit and school computer refurbishers.
- The National Cristina Foundation (NCF) accepts donations of used computer equipment from individuals and corporations in all 50 States. In turn, NCF directs the equipment to non-profit organizations, schools, and public agencies. These groups use the equipment for training, job development, educational programs and other projects to improve the lives of people with disabilities, students at risk, and economically disadvantaged people.
- Nonprofit Recycling and Reuse Network offers a donations database that averages 100 new donation offers each month. Tax-exempt nonprofit organizations seeking donations of computer equipment are eligible to work directly with the Network's donor list after registering as a member.
- Share the Technology offers a donation database that allows users to search equipment offered for donation or post requests for needed items.