We have an e-waste disposal program, so you can recycle CSU-owned IT assets (computers and accessories) across all campuses.
Electronic waste (e-waste) is a major contributor to landfill globally, but did you know most of the materials in a computer can be recycled? In fact, 99 per cent of them can be. You can help the environment and save resources by turning your old device into new, useful items.
Dispose of your personal items in an environmentally friendly way through local council e-waste collection.For more information on e-waste, view Sustainability at Charles Sturt's fact sheet [pdf 160kb] or see the Information Technology Equipment Disposal Policy for further details.
Electronic waste recycling program - Inspiring
"There have been several notable changes since the LiFE benchmarking workshop for Sustainable ICT in December 2014. Firstly, people want to hear about our sustainable approach and inquire as to where the old IT hardware goes. It has generated increased levels of engagement among staff. Power usage has also become important. Staff and students are interested in how much power is being consumed by computer items. The amount of heat dispersed in our offices has also been an issue.
However the most significant change is that vendors are increasingly very interested in the green credentials of IT hardware. All computers have an energy star rating and I provide vendors with that information. People are concerned about the impacts we are having on future generations.
This is significant because IT manufacturers are conscious of the impact of their products on the environment. It is not just how much energy is being used, it is the packaging with a shift towards minimal polystyrene and plastics being used. Now new computer monitors come with only a thin shield over the screen.
I took up this role in 2005 and staff were storing their old IT equipment, just in case they needed it in the future. When they did connect old devices to network, their antivirus software was not backed up and they experienced connection problems. Items were left in bins for the cleaners to collect and would end up in landfill. I spoke to staff in the Division of Facilities Management to encourage the collection of E-waste to return hardware to me at the computer shop at Bathurst.
Now our system is really good. Devices are disposed at the point of replacement. Staff order computers and they can cascade their old one to another user or dispose of it with their new order form. It does not just include IT equipment, it includes the licensed software and the sensitive data. These need to be transferred and all the data cleared from the devices prior to being sent for public auction or donated to not-for-profit organisations upon request.
Additionally, the E-recycling program has created learning and employment opportunities. I employ CSU students from the funds recovered at the public auctions and E-waste associated fees pays IT students to do the work. Tasks including deregistering machines from the network, transferal of the data and the software for clients. They completely clear all data, software and operating system from the machines. It is a totally cost neutral initiative. Students learn about warehousing, auction houses and dealing with clients."
By Gaye Smith, Manager Computer Shop, Bathurst, 2016
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