Another thing you probably didn’t know about America’s most iconic electronics and software vendor

Jun 18, 2010 14:49 GMT  ·  By

Apple claims that its commitment to the environment includes finding the most efficient ways to reuse or recycle electronic equipment, including computers and displays from any manufacturer. The Mac maker also strives to reduce even the consumer’s carbon footprint, by making extremely power-efficient computers, such as the new Mac mini it launched earlier this week. But Apple prides itself with yet another thing it does - awarding people Gift Cards for bringing in their old computer for recycling. The catch is that the computer needs to be functional.

“Get an Apple Gift Card for the value of your old computer,” Apple states on the Recycling-focused section of its website. “Turn that computer you’re not using anymore into a brand-new Mac, iPod, iPhone, or iPad. Whether it’s a Mac or a PC, working or nonworking. It doesn’t matter. We’ll take it and determine if it qualifies for reuse. If it does, that means your computer has monetary value that we’ll apply to an Apple Gift Card. You can use the gift card for purchases at any Apple Retail Store or the Apple Online Store. If your computer doesn’t qualify for reuse, we’ll recycle it responsibly at no cost to you,” Apple is proud to inform visitors of its website.

Apple does admit (in fine print) that it will only do the recycling free of charge if you either bring in any Mac computer or display, or any PC being recycled as part of the purchase of a new Mac. Those looking to recycle a PC without purchasing a new Mac can do so for a fee of $30.

The first step in getting that gift card is telling Apple about your computer. “Only Mac or PC desktop and notebook computers qualify for the Apple Recycling Program,” Apple states. Then interested parties need to get an estimate and ship their computer. “Apple contracts with PowerON, who will estimate the fair market value of your computer,” the company says. “They will also send you a box and a prepaid shipping label. Pack your computer carefully, then send it off,” this being the second and final step in receiving your Gift Card, if you’re not counting Step 3 - “Receive your Apple Gift Card. After a short time, your Apple Gift Card will arrive in the mail. Use it for purchases at any Apple Retail Store or the Apple Online Store.”

Residents of Cupertino, California can actually recycle any used or unwanted computers and home electronics for free at Apple’s Cupertino recycling collection facility. Apple operates and/or participates in recycling programs in Europe, Japan, Asia Pacific and Australia. A number of North American territories are eligible for free recycling programs as well. Apple provides more information here.