FTC Sends Out Earth Day 'Consumer Alert' to Recycle, Donate Old Electronics

Earth Day is “a great time to consider e-cycling or donating” old electronics, blogged FTC Consumer Education Specialist Colleen Tressler in a “consumer alert” Monday. “Dumping them in the trash is a bad idea” because most electronics “contain hazardous materials that shouldn't go into landfills,” she said. Many consumer tech companies have e-waste takeback programs and drop-off centers, she said. Many charities accept donations of “slightly outdated but still-functioning” computers, she said: “Before you recycle or donate your old electronics, remember to delete any personal information you stored on the device.”