A massive experience of computer equipment recycling

The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) are an emerging fraction of municipal solid waste. This kind of waste has, among other pollutants, heavy metals like cadmium, lead and nickel, as well as mercury and brominated plastics and therefore require specific management for treatment. This paper presents the results obtained in the First Week of Computer Waste held in the month of April 2011 in relation to the amount of equipment received. This campaign was organized by the University and was the first experience massive collection of WEEE home computer in the province of Cordoba. The data collected were analyzed for the purpose of obtaining relevant information regarding the generation of this particular kind of waste in the province. It processed a total of 80 tons of computer equipment in which 20 tons were destined for use and recovery of materials remaining. In this context there is an opportunity to develop recycling processes transferable to local industry for both the resources from the recovery of materials such as jobs constitute an engine of economic renewal for the region.