As I have mentioned in past posts, I am always looking for ways to reuse or recycle items. One of my biggest concerns has always been… “What do we do with machines (printers, etc.) that no longer work?”

In the past, there hasn’t been much of a choice: old, unworking machines got “thrown away.” Fortunately, the “green movement” has led to more options for these old machines, and it’s easier than you might think.

Over the course of several months, I had been accumulating old, broken equipment from around the office: Computer monitors, printers, UPS (back-up) units, etc. Admittedly, I didn’t spend a lot of time figuring out what to do with these things, but I couldn’t bear to throw them away. Finally, after one too many “pack rat” and “Sanford & Son” comments, I did a little research.

I knew about earth911.com, but I didn’t realize just how easy it is to recycle some of these lesser-used items. Just a few clicks, and I found out that all of my items; computer monitors, printer, UPS units, even a burnt-out CFL light bulb, could be recycled at my local Best Buy. There were actually several sites where I could take my items, but I chose the closest.

We loaded them items into my car, and a short while later, they were recycled. No longer did I have to listen to the Sanford & Son theme song when co-workers visited my office (and it was nice to have the extra space!) It was simple and I felt better knowing that these items were not simply headed to the landfill.

Next time you have anything that you are thinking of throwing in the trash, please take a look at earth911.com. From lead paint to batteries, you will be amazed at how many things can be recycled, and how easily you can help protect the environment.