Dell, EPA To Host Earth Day Computer Recycling Drive

Dell, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), TechTurn and the National Recycling Coalition will host an Earth Day computer recycling event for consumers in the Washington metropolitan area.

• The free event, to be held at Freedom Plaza downtown, is part of Dell’s ongoing commitment to educating consumers about responsible computer recycling options and keeping IT equipment out of landfills.
• Consumers can drive to the event and volunteers will unload equipment for recycling. Cars should enter from 13th Street, turning on to E Street.
• Washington, D.C. area residents can recycle any brand computer, monitor, printer and other computer equipment as well as cell phones and PDAs by dropping the items off at the event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Consumers are advised to remove all data from computer hard drives and any removable media such as disks, PC cards, flash drives, CD-ROMs. Televisions, stereo equipment and other electronic appliances cannot be accepted.
• Dell completed a rollout of its global recycling program in December 2006 and offers consumers free and convenient recycling of Dell products, worldwide irrespective of product purchase. The company recovered more than 78 million pounds of equipment from customers for recycling in 2006.

"We cannot think of a better day or more appropriate place to partner with consumers and stakeholders to make a difference for the environment," said Jim Duffey, vice president and general manager, Public Business Group, Dell. "Through public-private partnerships and initiatives, we are sending a clear message that no computer should go to waste."

"This event provides D.C.-area residents an easy opportunity to recycle unwanted computers and help protect the environment," said Molly O’Neill, EPA Assistant Administrator for the Office of Environmental Information and Chief Information Officer. "We are excited to work with organizations that are showing a strong commitment to corporate citizenship and setting an example for other businesses to follow."

"TechTurn has long been a proponent of delivering value from unwanted electronics through refurbishing the equipment and returning the devices to the market," said Jeff Zeigler, CEO of TechTurn. "This method ensures the least negative impact on the environment, keeps electronics out of landfills and provides a responsible outlet for affordable technology."

"Dell continues to be the leader in providing free e-cycling opportunities for Americans," said Kate Krebs, executive director of the National Recycling Coalition. "As we celebrate Earth Day, Americans will be looking for opportunities to show they care for the environment. This great event will be the perfect way to recycle old computers and do something good for the earth."