Green IT for Dummies®

Chapter 22. Ten Creative Computer Recycling Tips

In This Chapter

• Planning for reuse

• Putting older equipment to work internally

• Loading Linux on older PCs

• Using Knoppix

• Using old PCs for bulletin boards and kiosks

• Building an old media center

• Offering older computers to employees

• Finding a good home outside the organization

• Starting a computer recycling club

• Running a tag sale

• Disposing of e-waste responsibly

Veteran readers of For Dummies titles know that when it comes to The Part of Tens, For Dummies authors don't take "ten" too literally. When it comes to recycling tips, we certainly don't want to hold back.

Now, about those computers you're about to retire: They can still be productive for others. Although some effort is involved in finding new uses for old equipment, having such a reuse program in place can not only boost your company's image but also offer perks for your employees or the community. This chapter briefly introduces you to a number of ideas for recycling computers, from tips for removing sensitive information to ways to reach out to your community.

Plan for Reuse

Many obstacles to reusing older IT equipment can be avoided by taking care when new equipment is purchased. Save the software — the restore discs and any operating system license certificates — in a standardized way, either in a central location or, perhaps, in a shipping-label pouch attached to the machine.

Also, plan how you'll remove data from equipment you'll eventually retire so that you can prepare machines for ...