[GreenYes] Re: Staples computer reuse and recycling events

[David Wood <david@grrn.org>]

Anyone who participates in these events should inquire what ultimately will happen to the goods and materials collected that can not be refurbished and are to be processed for recycling. Even the most widely regarded feel-good retailer take back events, like those organized by Best Buy, make no guarantee that the materials were handled in an environmentally superior manner or that the materials weren't shipped overseas for processing. Consumers need to be aware that almost very little is known about what happens to the materials collected at events. There are very good electronics recyclers and there are those who traffic in global toxic trade; let's do what we can to shine bright lights on both, for different reasons.

STAPLES STORES WILL TAKE OLD COMPUTERS FOR REUSE AND RECYCLING FEB. 17 & 18

Staples, which operates more than 1,400 "superstores" for office supplies,
will accept computer equipment for reuse and recycling at its stores
nationwide this Sunday, February 17 and Monday, February 18 (Presidents'
Day).  Individuals and businesses can bring in their old computer equipment,
including monitors and hard drives.  There is no charge for this service.
Through a partnership with Gifts in Kind International, computers will be
refurbished and given to children's organizations in communities across the
country.  Computers that are unable to be rebuilt "will be recycled
responsibly to generate reusable materials," according to the press release.

To find the locations of Staples stores, see their website at:
http://www.staples.com  Click on "Find a Store" at the top.  If you click
on "United States" and give your city or zip code, it will find the closest
stores, and will give their address and phone number.  To confirm store
hours and whether they will accept a certain type of computer equipment
(especially anything unusual), people can call the store directly.

People who bring in old computer equipment to Staples during this event can
receive a $100 savings on a new computer with an Intel Pentium 4 processor,
or $20 off a purchase of $100 or more for other Staples products purchased
during those two days.

David Wood, Program Director
GrassRoots Recycling Network
5610 Dorsett Drive
Madison  WI  53711-3402
608-270-0940
608-347-7043 (cell)
david@grrn.org
www.grrn.org
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