Apple offers recycling for Mac trade-ins

Apple expanded its computer-recycling program Friday by announcing free take-back and recycling services with the purchase of a new Mac this summer.

Starting in June, U.S. customers will receive free shipping for their old computer so they can be disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner in the United States.

Even iPods, which only came out in late 2001, can be sent in. In a related announcement Friday, Apple said its fifth-generation iPod models were compliant with upcoming hazardous-materials restrictions coming out in California and Europe.

PCs and other electronics contain a variety of hazardous materials that make them generally unsuitable for conventional landfills. Also, environmentalists have objected to the shipment of junked electronics to foreign nations where regulations are relatively lax.

Apple has been recycling used computers since 2001 that has safely disposed of 90 percent of the gear received.

Copyright 2006 by United Press International

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