LibGuides: Green Living: Electronics Use and Disposal

Buying Greener Electronics

Earth friendly electronics doesn't have to be an oxymoron. Use these tips to select greener electronics.

Buy with energy in mind. Look for the Energy Star label.
Buy used. According to the Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition, 50% of computers being recycled are in good working order. They are discarded to make way for the latest technology.

Look on Freecyle, Ebay, Craigslist, or at your local computer dealer for used machines.
Some manufacturers offer refurbushed machines.

The resources below will help you make better computer purchasing decisions.

Amazon.com Trade In Program
Search for items to trade in. Print a shipping label and packing slip, package your items, and ship them. An Amazon.com Gift Card will be deposited into your account upon receipt of items. Accepts electronics, DVDs, books, and video games.
Best Buy Online Trade-in
Best Buy's trade-in programs give you a variety of ways to receive a Best Buy gift card (or a check for a lesser value) for your used video games, musical instruments and select used electronics.
Electronics TakeBack Coalition Electronics Recycling Guide
Gazelle
Gazelle is a reCommerce service that helps you sell and recycle your used electronics. Once received, your used cell phones and other used electronics are inspected to make sure their condition matches your evaluation.