Recycle this Christmas

The festive season is a popular time to upgrade computers and all things electronic. Last year alone over 4.4 million new computers were sold into Australia.

Drop Zone, a free government-approved and industry-funded e-waste collection service, is reminding all residents and small business that they can recycle their old and obsolete computers, printers and computer accessories for free by dropping them off at the following Drop Zone site found in Hills Shire Council

• Officeworks, 16 Victoria Ave, Castle Hill (Mon-Fri 7am-9pm, Sat 8am-7pm & Sum 9am-7pm)

With e-waste growing three times faster than any other type of waste it’s important that the community do the right thing and dispose of their obsolete computers and computer accessories responsibly by recycling them for free at their nearest Drop Zone site.

Computers and computer accessories have the potential to harm the environment if not correctly disposed. For example, older style CRT monitors contain more than two kilograms of lead and other toxic substances, which if sent to landfill can breakdown and leach into groundwater causing pollution.

So, for those of you who may receive a new computer or tablet under the Christmas tree or upgrade your computer in the Boxing Day sales, remember it’s important that you recycle your old electronic items correctly.

By recycling with Drop Zone, residents can be assured that upwards of 95% of the materials in their obsolete electronics will be recovered, recycled and used to make new products.

All types of computers are accepted, as are tablet devices and computer accessories including printers, mice, keyboards and all those cables. Residents should visit the dropzone.org.au website for a full list of acceptable items and other drop off locations.