Where does e-waste end up?

This video shows what is currently happening to the electonic waste from the United States and around the world. E-waste video from GreenPeace

The manufacture of an average desktop PC and monitor requires around 1.8 tons of raw material, including at least 240 kilograms of fossil fuels, 22 kilograms of chemicals and 2,500 kilograms of water. The weight of these components is about the same as an average car. (“Computers and the Environment: Understanding and Managing their Impacts,” by the United Nations University, 2004)

From 1997 to 2007, it is estimated that 500 million personal computers – two for each person in the country – will become obsolete. (National Recycling Coalition, 1999)

Although landfilling computers is still legal in Illinois, computer waste contains a number of hazardous materials. According to the Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition, computers include arsenic, mercury, and also several pounds of lead in every monitor.

Where can I recycle e-waste in Chicago?
Computers for Schools. This non-profit organization in Chicago accepts private and corporate computer donations, refurbishes the equipment, and makes them available to schools and other nonprofits, both in the city and the suburbs. Free pickup of 10 computers or more. Computers are refurbished on-site, and unusable equipment is recycled. Looking for Pentium III 600 MHz or better and all types of accessory equipment. 3350 N. Kedzie Ave, Dock 2, Chicago, IL 60618. (773) 583-7575.

Staples in-store computer collection. Any used computer, monitor, or printer can be dropped off at any Staples office supply store during regular business hours for a $10 fee.

Chicago has initiated a city-wide battery collection program, where alkaline and rechargeable batteries (but not lead-acid car batteries) can be dropped off at any Chicago Public Library or Walgreens Drug Store in the city.

Chicago has several recycling bins located throughout the city and now has a facility located on Goose Island that can accept- paint, computer, electronics, batteries etc. You can learn more on the City of Chicago Website.

If you have any other materials that you are looking to recycle but not sure where you can go? Visit the Chicago Recycling Coalition’s website for a list of places that you can recycle just about anything.

So go and make your difference in the world and recycle properly!

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