Data News Weekly Staff Report
Since 2011, residents of New Orleans have disposed of more than 80 tons of unwanted electronics at the Department of Sanitation’s Recycling Drop-Off Center. Donations are collected on the second Saturday of each month thanks to the partnership between the City of New Orleans and the Capital Area Corporate Recycling Council (CACRC). Drop-off hours are between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. The Drop-Off Center is located at 2829 Elysian Fields Ave. The next Recycling Drop-Off event date is Saturday, July 14, 2018.
Electronics accepted at the Recycling Drop-Off Center include: computer hardware and accessories (keyboards, mice, speakers, etc.), laptops, telephones, telephone systems, cell phones/bag phones, security systems, Xboxes, PlayStations, Wiis, MP3 players, digital cameras/digital video recorders (DVRs), DVD/CD players, stereos, networking equipment, fax machines, circuit boards, processors, LCD monitors, telephone and computer cables, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), small printers, toner cartridges, ink jet cartridges, portable navigation and GPS devices. For a complete list of items, visit www.cacrc.com/what-we-recycle.
The CACRC refurbishes all functional electronic equipment. After refurbishment, the equipment is made available, at discounted rates, to low-income families, veterans, senior citizens, schools and community centers, or made available for sale to the general public. New Orleans residents can click on the “Computers for Louisiana Families” option on CACRC’s website, complete the application and fax it to the CACRC along with a copy of their ID and a copy of their qualifying benefit such as a SNAP card, Medicaid card, etc. College students must provide a copy of their student ID and non-profits must provide a copy of their IRS letter.
Once the CACRC receives an application, it will contact the applicant to discuss which computer they prefer and the capabilities they require. CACRC also builds computers to specifications, at an additional cost. All systems come with a one-year warranty on parts and hardware.
Basic laptops start at $119.99 and desktop systems (CPU, monitor, keyboard, mouse and cables) at $99.99 for residents that qualify (seniors, veterans, non-profits, schools and low-income families). They also offer volume discounts to schools and non-profits. Payment can be made over the phone. There is an additional charge for shipping ($20 for laptops and $30 for desktops). Computers can be picked up from the CACRC in Baton Rouge to avoid shipping costs.
All other materials will be recycled responsibly via R2 RIOS standards. All hard drives will be erased to meet national standards by the CACRC.
It is important that citizens understand that these items should not be placed in garbage containers or curbside recycling carts or bins. Some parts may be considered hazardous waste.
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