Reuse wherever possible of the unwanted possessions of the well-off has been the way of life for the less well-off since time immemorial. This is also wisdom for protecting our Earth against environmental pollution, and conserving its scarce resources. This wisdom lies behind our environmental legislation, which implements European Directives: "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle". The benefits for the reuser are obvious, but there are also benefits for the disposer: the clear conscience, and even kudos, of being socially and environmentally responsible.

Every piece of electrical equipment consumes fossil fuels throughout its manufacture and use. In the case of a PC, 75-80% fossil fuel consumption has already happened before it is first switched on.

Unnecessarily short lifespans of PCs have serious implications for those who wish to reduce the environmental impact of their use.

Several options are available to reduce this environmental impact. One of the most effective is to extend the PC's usable lifespan.

Environmental benefits are enhanced by social and economic gains: the expense of new computer equipment is a major contributor to the "digital divide" that separates those who use computers from those who do not. The lower purchase cost of refurbished machines can provide access to those unable to afford them new, and can contribute to achieving social and economic development goals.

The reuse of ICT can generate opportunities for members of the community. TECC has:

• created jobs for a number of previously unemployed people.
• provided placements to volunteers in a number of fields, including computer refurbishment and administration. The volunteers often gain enough confidence and up-to-date experience to be able to take up full-time jobs.
• afforded placements for young people with learning difficulties who are needing to gain “real” work experience so that they can more easily enter the labour market.
• helped many Year 10 school pupils, including some with learning difficulties, with their required work placements. We are usually able to accommodate between ten and twenty local pupils per year.

Only if reuse is not practicable should recycling take place.

Please choose your partners for reuse carefully.

• Is their motivation more than merely financial?
• Are they really interested in helping the less well-off or protecting our Earth?

TECC started in 1999 by helping provide computers for developing countries, and works with our partner organisation “Peppercorn”.

Please visit the Peppercorn website to see our work with reuse partners.