The Hudson County Improvement Authority (HCIA) has launched its new Computer Recycling Program. The program promises to help improve our environment by making systems considered obsolete available to not-for-profit organizations in need of this technology.
According to Hudson County Executive Robert C. Janiszewski, numerous companies and computer owners continuously replace their old computers with newer and more sophisticated units without knowing what to do with their old ones.
“The problem of changing technology is that many corporations replace their functional computers and don’t find a proper channel to dispose of them,” said Janiszewski, as he inspected the first computers donated to the program last Thursday. “These computers contain dangerous components that cannot be thrown in the landfill because they contaminate the environment. This is a great program that is going to help solve a problem while providing non-profit organizations with tools that will enhance the services they provide in the county.”
HCIA Chairman John Shinnick agreed.
“This is a problem that doesn’t go away,” said Shinnick. “This program is a necessity for all of us to protect our resources and our environment.”
Computer monitors contain an average of 5 to 8 pounds of lead per unit, based on standard 14 – 15 inch monitors. If ingested, lead can have toxic effects on the central and peripheral human nervous systems and cause brain damage in children. It can seep into ground water, poisoning plants, animals and microorganisms.
“This effort reinforces the mission of the HCIA,” said Tom Calvanico, executive director of the HCIA. “Not only are we improving the environment and the quality of the air we breathe, but helping not-for-profit organizations to have access to equipment they wouldn’t be able to buy.”
Anyone interested in donating a functional computer can call the HCIA Recycling Coordinator Nick Staniewicz at (201) 795-4555.