I will admit that I have not been as responsible as I should have been over the years when it comes to recycling or reusing computers, cell phones, batteries, etc. Frankly, it can be a hassle. I can never find the instructions on what to do with old and worn out electronics once the time comes to replace them. It’s gotten to the point where I can’t even replace my electric toothbrush without having to worry about the impact on the environment. I’m not sure what that says, but I’m not happy about it.

When I think about how far technology has come, why can’t we make a proper disposable electric toothbrush anyway? Personally, I don’t think that’s asking too much. That said, I assure you I am not holding my breath waiting for the day when an environmentally friendly disposable PC hits the store shelves. As my kids would say, “Yeah, like that’s going to happen.” When you stop to think about it, however, it really is shame. I think there is something to the idea. Green stocks seem to be a hot commodity nowadays and mulching my old computer would be so cool!

I share all this because I suspect to some degree you can relate to what I am saying even if just a little. Dealing with end of useful life issues in regard to upgrading to newer technology is a bit of a hassle and so many of us take the environmentally unfriendly but hassle-free solution and just toss things out, particularly the really old stuff that you can’t even give away. We know there is a better way, but it’s a time and money thing.

Of course, now Al Gore comes along with his movie touting the global warming message and I start to feel even guiltier. I won’t shoot the messenger here. I’ll simply acknowledge that I do know at some level things are a bit askew. When we are actually shipping old dead computer garbage around the globe, I’d say that something is amiss; or is this just me? Well, enough of this as there is a better way.

There is a wonderful site on the web where one can find information about reusing or recycling a vast number of things, including computers, cell phones and batteries. It’s www.earth911.org. The site is full of useful tips, is a great place to come up to speed on the seriousness of environmental issues without all the hubbub and, most importantly, provides information on where and how tech items may be recycled or reused. Finally, I don’t have to dig through my office looking for those darn instructions.

So, here is to 2007. Now that it is a little easier to get the information that I need to do my piece, I resolve to make better decisions going forward when it comes to replacing all my gadgets, gizmos and other tech toys and I encourage you to consider doing the same. A little knowledge can go along way. Now, if I can only figure out what to do about Big Oil. Those guys are killing me in the pocketbook. Anyone?