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Computers should be reused or recycled. Before taking advantage of these options, be sure you comply with:

• Accounting Services guidelines for equipment disposal
•  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Outdated or non-functional computers and electronic equipment:

The items listed below may not be put in the garbage. This list includes items that are banned from disposal in a landfill in accordance with the .

• Desktop or laptop computers
• Peripheral equipment, such as mice, keyboards and monitors
• Scanners
• Printers
• Fax machines
• Televisions
• Microwaves
• Speakers
• Videocassette recorders 
• DVD players
• Portable digital music players
• Video game consoles
• Small-scale servers
• Digital converter boxes
• Cable and satellite receivers
• CDs 
• Magnetic tape

Our recycling program ensures that all hard drives are destroyed and the equipment is recycled in a way that is compliant with EPA standards. 

Â鶹´«Ã½ will pick up University-owned computer and electronic equipment on campus. Items must be collected in a central location in your office or space. Pickups through the electronics recycling program are intended for routine, day-to-day equipment turnover, and replacements.

We are unable to accommodate the collection of large, heavy, or high-volume requests (such as clean-outs or moves), including large lab equipment. 

Beginning July 20, 2026, if your request includes any of the following, you must coordinate directly with Reebie Movers:

• Items larger than 24 inches square
• Any single item weighing more than 50 pounds
• More than 20 non-peripheral items (e.g., excluding mice, keyboards, and cables)

Reebie has access to the electronics recycling collection room, and all collected items will be processed through the University’s electronics recycling program.

See below for handling of equipment used in laboratories.

There are different protocols for Feinberg School of Medicine. Please use for decommissioning and recycling items.

Prior to disposing of university-owned laboratory equipment, visit the  and complete the "Laboratory Equipment Disposal" form (under the Laboratory Equipment heading). 

Most newer copiers, especially those that were set up to scan and print, have hard drives that could contain some files.  

Working copiers

List the copier on the .

Outdated or non-functional copiers

If your copier is leased, contact Sheila Watkins.

Freon and coolant must be removed from any item before disposal. Contact Facilities Management Customer Service to arrange for removal service. Refrigerators and freezers can then be recycled as scrap metal.

Consider donating your computer to:

• Schools or a non-profit group.
• Commercial businesses or groups.

Visit the  for donation tips and information.

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 .
• Northern Cook County: Call 847-296-9205 or visit the .
• West Cook County: Call 708-450-0100 or visit the .

Consider donating your cell phone:

•  that accept cell phone donations.
• The  provides donated wireless phones to domestic violence agencies.

Most cellular carriers recycle or reuse donated phones. See your carrier's website for more information: