Do you have an old computer that doesn't work anymore? How about a monitor that is so dim that you have to look at the power light to tell if it's on?

If you're like a lot of people, these items end up in a closet, or a basement, or in the corner of your computer room. Some people get tired of looking at that old monitor in the corner and toss it in the nearest dumpster.

But be warned! Because computers contain toxic metals – arsenic, chromium, and mercury – and CRT monitors can contain as much as eight pounds of lead, many areas are classifying this waste as hazardous. Placing your computers and monitors in standard waste receptacles is illegal in many areas. Regardless of the legality, throwing out these items with regular trash is wasteful and potentially harmful to the environment. I don't know about you, but I like my water unleaded.

So if you can't donate your old equipment because it's either too old or doesn't work, what can you do?

Fortunately, we live in an area that provides us with an outlet. Recycle Works, located at 60 Triad South Drive in St. Charles, accepts computers and related equipment. This facility will take most computer equipment for free, but larger items such as laser printers and CRT monitors require a $5 fee per item. You can even dispose of really large appliances such as refrigerators and air conditioners for a nominal $15 fee per item. Recycle Works will dispose of non-recyclable materials properly and recycle the materials that can be used again. If your closet space is endangered (like mine is), try this service.

Read the official statement regarding the Recycle Works center at the St. Charles County Department of Community Health & The Environment website <http://www.scchealth.org/docs/doche/pr/041404_RecycleWorks.html>.

If you live closer to Wentzville, try http://www.scchealth.org/docs/es/esdocs/recycops.html.