Karino AyakoThe modern world has become so convenient with computers situated in every home and office. But when it comes to discarding them, they become somewhat of a burden. Many people are lost when their computers break down, not knowing what to do with them.
A survey by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry shows that about 47% of households have unnecessary computers sleeping in their homes. Computers are identified as priority items for recycling. Even though there is already a system for collecting them pursued by manufacturers, the collection rate is limited to only 5%. Moreover, small household appliances contain many useful metals, including rare ones. However, they are often landfilled or improperly processed overseas without being effectively used.
Now there is a service that allows people to recycle their personal computers without leaving their homes. Providing the service is Renet Japan Recycle of Aichi Prefecture—a subsidiary company of Renet Japan Group. Six years ago, the company started promoting the effective use of limited resources through recycling personal computers and small household appliances using courier services.
The company is the first of its kind to be certified as a business operator that targets areas nationwide. It aims to recycle and reduce e-waste, promote the effective use of limited resources, and further contribute to the environment and society. Convenient courier collection will also improve residential services, promote collection by appropriate routes, and prevent passing down computers to unauthorized dealers, which has become a social problem today.
The process of using the service is very simple: Apply on the Internet for collection, and major courier service Sagawa Express will visit your home on the date and time you desire. There is a 1,500 yen charge per box, but the fee is free if you put a computer inside it. You are also allowed to put up to 400 types of household appliances, not just computers, as well. After collection, Renet Japan Recycle will securely process it at a certified factory in Japan and all computers are traceable on the website for users to see.
Recently, Renet Japan Recycle agreed on a pact with 7 local governments to deliver their service further. From October 1st, Renet Japan Recycle is extending their collection area to Fujimino City in Saitama Prefecture, Komae City in Tokyo, Aridagawa Town in Wakayama Prefecture, Minowa Town in Nagano Prefecture, Yoshioka Town in Gunma Prefecture, Niikappu Town and Rusutsu Village in Hokkaido. As such, Renet Japan Recycle now collects used PCs and small household appliances from a total of 270 areas—with a population of 55.35 million—including 27 areas in Saitama Prefecture, 32 in Tokyo, 2 in Wakayama Prefecture, 5 in Nagano Prefecture, 6 in Gunma Prefecture and 9 in Hokkaido.
98% of those who have already used the service replied in a questionnaire that the service was “convenient compared to garbage collection in municipalities” and that “they would like to use it again.”
So why not open your cupboard and take out your dusty computer? One click on their website and Renet Japan Recycle will see to it that your computer is recycled for future usages.
