Faculty & Staff eCycling
Select the equipment you want to dispose of:
- University-owned computers
- University-owned electronics and appliances
- University-owned lab equipment
- University-owned copiers
- Personal electronic equipment
University-owned computers
Computers should be reused or recycled. Before taking advantage of these options, be sure you comply with:
- Accounting Services guidelines for equipment disposal
- NUIT's policy on computer equipment disposal
- Accounting Services for Research and Sponsored Programs (ASRSP) disposal policies
Working computers:
Consider listing computers that are still usable on the Surplus Property Exchange, an online bulletin board where departments and schools can post their University-owned equipment for sale or free.
Outdated, no longer working or needed computers and electronic equipment:
The items listed below may not be put in the garbage. This list includes items that are banned disposal in a landfill in accordance with the Illinois Electronic Products Recycling and Reuse Act.
Northwestern will pick up University-owned computer and electronic equipment free of charge:
Desktop computers | Speakers | Cords, cables & wires | DVD players |
Laptop computers | Scanners | Televisions | Video game consoles |
Mice | Printers | Microwaves | Small scale servers |
Monitors | Fax machines | Videocassette recorders | Digital converter boxes |
Keyboards | Magnetic tape | Portable digital music players | Cable & satellite receivers |
Cellular phones |
Our recycling program ensures that all data on the hard drive is destroyed and the equipment is recycled in a way that is compliant with EPA standards. Eligible computers will be sanitized by NUIT and donated to local non-profit organizations. Note: Please do not cut any computer or power cords prior to pickup.
University-owned copiers
Working copiers: List the copier on the Surplus Property Exchange.
Broken or unclaimed copiers:
- Most newer copiers, especially those that were set up to scan and print, have hard drives that could contain some files. Before listing them on the Surplus Property Exchange or arranging for disposal, we recommend that you have the company that services your copier "wipe" the hard drive.
- NUIT has developed a set of recommendations regarding security for networked printers, scanners, copiers and fax machines.
- If your copier is leased, contact Sheila Watkins.
University-owned electronic equipment
Facilities will also pick up University-owned microwaves and televisions free of charge.
University-owned laboratory equipment
Prior to disposing of university-owned laboratory equipment, visit the Research Safety website and complete the "Laboratory Equipment Disposal" form (under the Laboratory Equipment heading). Once the equipment is approved for disposal by ORS, the lab/user should complete the pickup request form below.
Personal electronic equipment
Working computers less than 5 years old
Consider donating your computer to:
- Schools or a non-profit group.
- Commercial businesses or groups.
Visit the EPA's eCycling website for donation tips and information.
Broken, old or outdated computers
Many computer manufacturers recycle their products, and some give discounts on purchasing your next computer:
Local groups that recycle computer equipment:
Lake County: Call 847-336-9340 or visit the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County website.
Northern Cook County: Call 847-296-9205 or visit the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County website.
West Cook County: Call 708-450-0100 or visit the Solid Waste Agency of West Cook County website.
Dell Reconnect program: Reconnect is a residential computer recycling program that allows you to drop off any brand of used equipment at participating Goodwill donation centers in your area. For more information, visit the Dell Reconnect website.
Cell Phones
Consider donating your cell phone:
View a list of places that can recycle wireless devices.
Most cellular carriers recycle or reuse donated phones. See your carrier's web site for more information: