Some useful sites for Conservation Issues:
Maryland’s Official website for recycling
U. S. Environmental Agency

WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR ELECTRONIC RECYCLABLES
By Lauren Indvik
Edited by Aida Cipriani
Consumer electronics, a broad category that includes TVs, computers, audio devices, phones and other related devices, currently constitutes nearly 2% of the municipal solid waste stream and is steadily rising at a rate of 8% per year.  According to the EPA, of the roughly 2.25 million tons of used and unwanted electronics each year, 18% is collected for recycling and roughly 82% winds up in landfills.
These are unfortunate statistics given the many useful and eco-friendly alternatives for disposing of your old electronics — not to mention tax breaks for consumers.  We’ve highlighted a few of these options below, along with information about preparing your unwanted goods for donation.

What to Do Before Donation

• Don’t wait.  If you’re no longer using a device, donate it as soon as you can.  The value of consumer electronics declines at a fast pace.  A computer that’s three years old, for instance, can be refurbished and used by students; a computer that’s six years old will most likely be recycled for parts.
• Clear the hard drive.  This is essential for maintaining your privacy.  Not sure how to clear your computer’s hard drive?  Check out this video guide at PC World.
• Include related materials.  If you’re donating a computer, include any manuals, monitors, keyboards, connection cables, software, etc. you have that you no longer need.

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