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Can you recycle computers and laptops?

Yes

Yes, you can!
Seperate waste stream required

How to recycle computers and laptops at home

  1. Back up your data.
  2. Wipe your hard drive.
  3. Remove the battery (if removable).
  4. If your laptop or computer is working, donate it.
  5. If it is not usable, you can drop it to your local recycling centre.

How to recycle computers and laptops for your business

  1. Laptops and computers fall under the WEEE waste stream. Gather all of the old computers and laptops that you want to recycle.
  2. Wipe the hard drives first to remove any personal files. Bywaters will do this on your behalf.
  3.  Choose Bywaters to recycle your computers and laptops.

Yes

Do

  • Remove any batteries or detachable parts
  • Recycle laptop batteries with your battery waste
  • You can include the wires, cables and plugs with this service
  • Keyboard and Mice

Do not

  • Do not throw your laptops or computers in with regular recycling
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The WEEE Recycling Process

We collect your WEEE using our Euro 6 fleet

For IT equipment, we can arrange data wiping services

Any reusable items are donated to charity or local businesses

Non-reusable items are broken down into component parts

Each material is then recycled into new products

Facts about computers and laptops

  • In 2020 the UK generated a staggering 23.9 kg of e-waste per capita. If this trend persists, it is projected that come 2030, the UK will be grappling with just under 55,000 tonnes of e-waste.
  • The production of a laptop or computer requires a significant amount of energy and resources. The materials used in their construction, such as plastics, metals, and rare earth minerals, can have a negative impact on the environment.
  • The disposal of computers and laptops can also be harmful to the environment. When they are thrown away in landfills, their components can release harmful toxins into the soil and water.
  • The use of computers and laptops also consumes energy. The average laptop consumes about 50 watts of power per hour, while the average desktop computer consumes about 140 watts of power per hour. This energy consumption can contribute to climate change.

Nando enquiry

Register your interest, and one of our recycling experts will be in touch.

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