Dell: PC industry needs to go green

Computer makers challenged to offer free recycling programs for customers

January 9, 2007 —By May Wong - LAS VEGAS - Michael Dell, chairman of Dell Inc., issued a challenge Tuesday to the entire PC industry to adopt free recycling programs for customers as he announced that his company would offer to plant a tree for every PC sold.

"Today, I challenge every PC maker to join us in providing free recycling for every customer in every country you do business, all the time — no exceptions," Dell said. "It's the right thing to do for our customers. It's the right thing to do for our earth."

The company has received high "green" marks from some environmental groups, including Greenpeace.

In 2004, Dell began offering free recycling of any brand of computer or printer if consumers bought a new Dell system.

The policy was revised in June so that consumers can recycle all Dell-branded printers, personal computers or other electronics gear for free, no purchase of new Dell gear required.

For those not buying a new system or who don't have Dell equipment, the Round Rock, Texas, company will take back used electronics for $10 per box, as long as it weighs less than 50 lbs.

Dell, the company's founder, made his remarks during a keynote at the International Consumer Electronics Show.

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