The most rapidly growing class of waste is electronic waste (e-waste), and old computer monitors (and TVs) make up a significant fraction of our tech trash.
Traditionally, most of these old monitors ended up either being buried in landfill or exported to countries with poor health and environmental policies, either for rudimentary recycling or dumping.
With old computer monitors containing toxic materials such as lead, mercury, chromium and cadmium, they represent something of a time bomb to both the environment and to human health.
Now, governments at all levels are getting serious about the e-waste problem.
For example, the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme (NTCRS) has seen 230,000 tonnes of TV and computer waste collected since 2011, with more than 90% of the collected material recovered for reuse.
Getting in on the act
Of course, an effective recycling program relies on us all getting in on the act, so how do you recycle old computer monitors?
There are plenty of options, including the following:
- Firstly, you can check if the manufacturer offers a take-back service. For example, Apple products can be left at Apple stores for recycling. Other manufacturers may operate recycling schemes through their retail networks.
- Ecocycle recycling plants are located in each Australian state. If you happen to be near one, you can drop off your computer monitor (or TV) at no charge during business hours.
- Check your local council’s website. Chances are they are part of the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme (NTCRS) and accept participating products at their recycling stations.
- Or go to recyclingnearyou.com.au, enter your location, and you’ll be presented with a list of nearby collection points.
- For commercial quantities, it’s even easier. Give Ecocycle a call on 1300 32 62 92 and we’ll arrange pickup.
Investing for our future
The good news is that people are rising to the occasion. The NTCRS is hitting its targets for recycling, and the amount of waste being diverted from landfill will further increase when Victoria’s ban on dumping e-waste comes into effect in mid-2019.
More good news: the industry recognises the importance of onshore recycling of e-waste, not only for environmental benefits, but for its resource recovery and economic benefits too.
Ecocycle is an industry leader in recycling many types of e-waste, including computer monitors. To maintain that leadership, we are investing heavily in state-of-the-art technology specifically designed to safely disassemble monitors and to maximise resource recovery.
Our expertise stands ready to service the needs of businesses, local councils and other organisations that are seeking safe recycling solutions for larger quantities of computer monitors.
To find our more, get in touch by calling 1300 32 62 92 or fill out the form below and let’s explore the options.
