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How to Dispose of Computer Monitors – If you have computer monitors in your trash that still work, don’t get rid of them just yet! There are many ways to re-purpose this electronic equipment, and by doing so you can save money and help the environment. Here are some ideas on how to dispose of computer monitors responsibly.
1. How to Dispose of Computer Monitors
1.1 Donate it
Many charities accept used electronics and give them to low-income communities or schools. This is a win-win because they also help prevent e-waste buildup, which is one of today’s biggest environmental problems. You can find a list on Earth911.
But if you want your old monitor (or any other electronic) properly recycled, don’t leave it out with your trash the landfill where it’ll end up will probably handle only televisions and computers in its recycling program.
Find a local recycler through Earth911, or call your city government for more information about drop-off sites. Be sure that you wipe hard drives before throwing them away! They can contain sensitive personal information, including passwords and account numbers.
1.2 Sell it
If you’re still using a CRT monitor, it may be time to move on. If so, be sure to recycle your old monitor! For any electronic equipment over 10 pounds (4.5 kg), check your local Best Buy store for recycling options.
In-store electronics recycling collection is free, and Best Buy will recycle your electronics for free as well. This includes all devices that are not displayed at point-of-sale (e.g., televisions, computers, etc.)
For smaller electronics like phones and tablets under 10 pounds (4.5 kg), consider donating them or selling them instead of throwing them away; many non-profits will collect working cell phones for distribution in developing countries and recyclers provide competitive prices for phones and computers.
1.3 Recycle it
Contrary to what you might expect, it’s easy (and free) to recycle electronics in most parts of America. Most companies and municipalities ask that you rinse off your used electronic equipment (here’s how). Then, simply take them over to a participating recycling center or even drop them off at an electronics store.
Don’t worry about whether or not they’ll work most places will refurbish and re-sell old electronics, donating any unsold equipment directly into classrooms. Best Buy runs a program called Best Buy Education Reuse and Recycling which recycles more than 95% of its outdated IT products annually through partners like Dell Reconnect and schools across North America. There are also a number of organizations dedicated solely to recycling e-waste.
1.4 Dispose of it yourself.
If you’re only going to break down one monitor, it may be worth attempting on your own. However, you’ll need a few safety precautions in place, including working in a well-ventilated area (like outdoors) and protective eyewear.
If you go at it yourself and aren’t sure how much time or effort you should spend crushing or grinding all those pieces into smaller bits and make sure that any chemicals or electrical components are safely disposed of after removing them from the product.
Be sure to wear gloves and protective clothing when taking apart monitors as there is a danger from exposure to lead paint and other harmful toxins on these products, then we recommend taking them to a recycling facility instead. Sure, they charge fees (on average $45-$90), but who cares? You don’t have toxic materials sitting around your house taking up space either.
1.5 Return It to the Computer Manufacturer
If your monitor came with a manufacturer recycling program, try returning it there. In most cases, companies will send someone out for pickup or pay for shipping costs if you can’t find a convenient drop-off location. For example, both Dell and Apple have taken back tens of millions of pounds from their customers in recent years.
1.6 E-Waste
If you can’t find a place that will take your old monitor, drop it off at an authorized e-waste collection site. When possible, dismantle and recycle components yourself—you’ll be surprised by how much material can be recovered!
E-waste refers to electronic waste or any electrical or electronic product that is thrown away instead of being reused. The biggest contributors are electronics such as computers, printers, televisions, and mobile phones. E-waste can contain toxic materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium; it also contains a lot of valuable resources including gold, copper, and other precious metals.
READ MORE: How are Curved Monitors Measured
2. Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
2.1Is it safe to dispose of a computer monitor?
When throwing away a used or broken monitor, you have a few options in terms of disposal. Your first option is to take it to your local computer store for proper disposal and recycling. If you’re unsure about whether or not it’s safe to throw out an old monitor on your own, ask your local municipality—the authorities may be able to help you determine if there are any local laws prohibiting electronics disposal.
2.2 Do computer monitors need to be recycled?
The short answer is yes. But it’s not necessarily as simple as taking your broken monitor to a recycling center. Many electronic products contain hazardous materials, and some can be recycled, but others are difficult or even impossible to recycle. Check out our guide below before you throw your broken monitor in with your next recycling pickup!
2.3 Are LCD monitors considered hazardous waste?
Yes, LCD monitors are considered hazardous waste. As such, they must be disposed of properly in order to protect humans and ecosystems from potentially harmful substances that may leach out into soil or water. In order to ensure that your monitor is recycled and not just thrown away, make sure you search for an e-waste recycling center near you.
Summary
If you’re thinking about how to get rid of your old monitor, it’s best to look into recycling options. In most places, both companies and individuals can recycle old technology for a small fee, which keeps these items out of landfills. The easiest way is to check with your local recycling center or charity organization (like Goodwill). You can also check eBay or Craigslist for refurbished monitors and sell yours as well. If you don’t want to sell it, consider donating it. Donating used equipment is much better than throwing it away.