Computer reuse and recycling
If you're a business or an organisation we can collect working IT equipment for free.
Computer reuse and recycling
You can recycle computers, laptops and IT equipment at our recycling centres. If you’re a business or organisation with working IT equipment you no longer need, you can apply to get it collected for free.
Recycled electrical items will either be donated through the Digital Inclusion Scheme to improve access to education and employment opportunities, sold in one of the Reuse Shops to raise money for charities or recycled for components.
Business computer recycling
If you are a business, we can collect working computers for free. This service includes data removal. To demonstrate your data will be deleted securely we hold a ISO 27001 and BS EN 15713 certification.
Computer recycling for Bristol residents
Residents can recycle old computers by dropping them off at the recycling centres or Reuse Shops. Small electrical items are collected with your recycling. Put the items inside a supermarket carrier bag and leave next to your black recycling box.
What happens to recycled computers in Bristol?
Computers are a treasure trove of valuable and rare metals. Recycling your computer will help protect the environment and ensure materials are recovered and reused.
Harmful chemicals in electronics like computers can be very destructive if they leak into the environment. Therefore, we are certified to remove and dispose of these chemicals safely and securely.
There are three possible processes for your recycled computer that protects the environment and helps reduce the mining of resources.
1. The computer or laptop is donated
We are working with Bristol City Council to give working electrical IT equipment to disadvantaged communities for free. Your old computers will help residents access new opportunities, including online education and employment.
2. We sell the computer or laptop in the Reuse Shop
If your old computer is suitable for reuse, we will PAT test it, delete all your data and sell it in the Reuse Shop. The money raised from sales goes back into running Bristol Waste and supporting local charities in the Bristol area.
3. Recycle the computers components
You can drop off old computers at one of Bristol’s recycling centres. If they are in good working order, we will fix them for reuse. Alternatively, we recycle its components and stop toxic materials from leaking into the environment. You can also check the Recycle Now website for other local recycling facilities.
How to recycle your computer in Bristol
Drop your computer, laptop or tablet at any of our recycling centres. We will then recycle it's components, sell it in the Reuse Shop or donate it through the digital inclusion scheme.
Avonmouth Reuse and Recycling Centre
Kings Weston Lane
Avonmouth
Bristol
BS11 0YS
St Philips Reuse and Recycling Centre
Folly Lane, off Days Road
St Philips
Bristol
BS2 0QS
Digital Inclusion Scheme
By reusing computers we are reducing digital exclusion in Bristol. Our aim is to give away 6000 reused computers to people, groups and charities in Bristol to help reduce digital poverty.
Furthermore, all donated computers not only have a 12 month warranty they also have 3 months of tech support.
FAQ – Computer recycling in Bristol
Absolutely! You can take it to your local recycling depot and we will effectively dispose of it or give it a new life. Bristol Waste will wipe all your data, give it a clean down and donate it to local charities, schools, families or sell it in the reuse shop.
Small electrical items that can fit within a supermarket carrier should be put inside untied bags next to your black recycling box. If it’s too large, visit any of our reuse and recycling centres to recycle your computer. Don’t forget to book your visit in advance!
We recommend reformatting your computer and removing all the data before dropping it off in the recycling centre. If we donate it through the Digital Inclusion Scheme or sell it in the Reuse Shop, you can be assured we will remove any remaining data.
Small electrical items that can fit within a supermarket carrier can be put inside untied bags next to your black recycling box.
Alternatively, if it’s too large like computers, we recommend that you;
- recycle it at one of our reuse and recycling centres for it to be rehomed in the Digital Inclusion Scheme, sold in the Reuse Shop or recycled
- donate your computer to charity but, check if they accept electrical items. Some charities do not have the technicians to be able to PAT test or repair electrical products. We also donate computers to small local charities that need more money to buy computers for work and operations.
- If you are purchasing a new laptop, the retailer is legally required to help you recycle the old one. Ask instore to see if they can help.
Businesses can call 0800 061 4321 or email sales@bristolwastecompany.co.uk and Bristol Waste will come and pickup any working desktop computer, laptop or useful electrical items for free. This is subject to certain conditions. Computers must be within 7 years old and have an I3 minimum processor.
Our Reuse Shops
We divert good condition, fit-for-purpose items from the waste stream and get them into the hands of people who can use them.