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Faculty and Staff eCycling

Disposal procedures vary by the type of equipment you'd like to dispose of.

University-Owned Equipment

Computers, electronic equipment and appliances

Computers should be reused or recycled. Before taking advantage of these options, be sure you comply with:

Working computers

Consider listing computers that are still usable on the Surplus Property Exchange, an online bulletin board where departments and schools can post their University-owned equipment for sale or free. 

Outdated or non-functional computers and electronic equipment:

The items listed below may not be put in the garbage. This list includes items that are banned disposal in a landfill in accordance with the .

  • Desktop or llaptop computers
  • Peripheral equipment, such as mice, keyboards and monitors
  • Scanners
  • Printers
  • Fax machines
  • Televisions
  • Microwaves
  • Speakers
  • Videocassette recorders 
  • DVD players
  • Portable digital music players
  • Video game consoles
  • Small-scale servers
  • Digital converter boxes
  • Cable and satellite receivers
  • CDs 
  • Magnetic tape

Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ will pick up University-owned computer and electronic equipment free of charge.

Our recycling program ensures that all data on the hard drive is destroyed and the equipment is recycled in a way that is compliant with EPA standards. Eligible computers will be sanitized by NUIT and donated to local non-profit organizations. Note: Please do not cut any computer or power cords prior to pickup.

Copiers

Most newer copiers, especially those that were set up to scan and print, have hard drives that could contain some files. Before listing them on the Surplus Property Exchange or arranging for disposal, we recommend that you have the company that services your copier "wipe" the hard drive.  

Working copiers

List the copier on the .

Outdated or non-functional copiers

If your copier is leased, contact Sheila Watkins.

Laboratory equipment

Prior to disposing of university-owned laboratory equipment, visit the  and complete the "Laboratory Equipment Disposal" form (under the Laboratory Equipment heading). Once the equipment is approved for disposal by ORS, the lab/user should complete the pickup request form below. 

Refrigerators and freezers

Freon and coolant must be removed from any item before disposal. Contact Facilities Management Customer Service to arrange for removal service. Refrigerators and freezers can then be recycled through scrap metal or electronic waste collections.

Personal Equipment

Working computers less than 5 years old

Consider donating your computer to:

  • Schools or a non-profit group.
  • Commercial businesses or groups.

Visit the  for donation tips and information.

Broken, old or outdated computers

Many computer manufacturers recycle their products, and some give discounts on purchasing your next computer:

Local groups that recycle computer equipment:

  • Lake County: Call 847-336-9340 or visit the .
  • Northern Cook County: Call 847-296-9205 or visit the .
  • West Cook County: Call 708-450-0100 or visit the .
Dell Reconnect program is a residential computer recycling program that allows you to drop off any brand of used equipment at participating Goodwill donation centers in your area. For more information, visit the .

Cell phones

Consider donating your cell phone:

  •  that accept cell phone donations.
  • The  provides donated wireless phones to domestic violence agencies.

Most cellular carriers recycle or reuse donated phones. See your carrier's website for more information: