WHO'S RESPONSIBLE FOR PC RETIREMENT?
Part of the problem is no one group wants to take
] responsibility for hardware disposal.
] Many user companies and analysts say PC companies should
] take back retired hardware. Indeed, some do -- but only
] for their very biggest customers and only if a deal is
] made at the time of purchase or lease.
] Garbage collection companies say PC makers should use
] safer, nontoxic materials during manufacturing.
] PC companies generally say that local governments should
] set up facilities for the safe disposal of computer junk.
] But computers are a mix of varied, and sometimes toxic,
] materials. That makes recycling difficult and
] time-consuming, because someone has to separate the
] parts, said Gary Kelman, an officer at the National
] Association of Environmental Professionals in South
] Portland, Maine.