Computer recyling

Rhodes University makes an effort to dispose of old computer equipment and peripherals (mice, keyboards, monitors, printers etc) in an environmentally friendly manner, preferably by sending it for recycling.

On campus:

RU staff with scrap IT equipment:

1. RU staff should complete an Asset Write Off form - available from the RU Assets Administrator on ext 8141.
2. Inform the IT Division of the asset numbers being written off - email support(at)ru.ac.za or call ext 8288.
3. Make prior arrangements for temporary storage with the Clerk, Furniture & Equipment Store - call ext 8567 and email a list of the equipment + asset numbers to a.kivitts(at)ru.ac.za 
4. Once you receive a reply from the Clerk, email janitors(at)ru.ac.za and cc a.kivitts(at)ru.ac.za to collect the items + the Asset Write Off form and deliver them to the F&E Store.

Faulty equipment

RU staff with faulty IT equipment:

• RU staff should bring or send (via Janitors) their faulty equipment to RU Electronic Services.
• Electronic Services will assess and either (a) repair or (b) write off the equipment.
• If (a), then user collects equipment.
• If (b), then Electronic Services will complete the Asset Write Off paperwork, as mandated by Finance assets administration, and make arrangements for temporary storage at the Furniture & Equipment Store.

Off-campus facilities:

There are various options for disposing of scrap IT equipment:

• Recyclers: Send the non-hazardous components of the equipment (metal casing, plastic covers, etc) to be recycled.
• NB: a new company is currently setting up a facility in Port Elizabeth to recycle every single aspect of any electrical equipment, including computers. We hope it will be open for business in 2012. Watch this space!
• Kisma Kreative: makes use of computer keyboards and mice for recycling or 'upcycling' (the creative re-use of components for artwork or useful products). Contact Tracy (083-522.8932 / tracy(at)kisma.co.za or visit www.kisma.co.za to see what will happen to your keyboards and mice.
• E-Waste Association of South Africa: lists collection points in the Eastern Cape area at http://www.e-waste.org.za/ewaste/collectionpoints/easterncape

It is very important to scrutinise the integrity of any service provider before sending e-waste for disposal, or even donating old computers to needy communities - view these case stories of e-waste in South Africa and e-waste in Ghana. Also visit our page on the safe disposal of e-waste.

Go to the Rhodes University ENVIRONMENT front page. Suggestions/Questions? Contact environment(at)ru.ac.za