by 
The Curious Bag
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As more computers are made and older ones become obsolete, disposal has become an issue. Proper disposal is important to the environment and often for complying with local waste disposal laws.
Laws
It is illegal in some states and in some other countries such as the United Kingdom to throw your computer and computer components into the regular trash. Call your local waste management office for laws in your area.
Landfill Mass
Computers are part of e-waste and include the monitors, printers and computer parts. In 2007, the Environmental Protection Agency reports of the 157.3 units disposed of, only 18 percent were recycled.
Toxic Chemicals
As much as 2 kg of lead might be in one computer. It also might contain cadmium, used in older batteries, and brominated flame retardants on the cases and wire, and cable coverings as well as mercury.
Metals
The metals ferrous (containing iron) and nonferrous in the computer create pollution issues. The metals can also be recycled.
Continued Use
Even though a computer might no longer meet your needs, donating it for use by underprivileged people or other countries helps others, and decreases landfill and disposal site burden.
Disposal
Contact your local waste management for laws, and recycling options or sources. Some computer manufacturers recycle the computers they make.
Source:
Why is it Important to Recycle Computer Equipment
What Are The Substances of Potential Concern in Electronics?
Statistics on the Management of Used and End-of-Life Electronics
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