What materials can be recycled and what is the procedure?
Please visit the RE-NU recycling guidelines page.

How do I recycle a computer?
Obsolete computers often contain sensitive information, and every computer contains hazardous materials. Abandoned or improperly-discarded computers also create information theft and safety hazards, and may imply liability for the University, but more precisely, may create liability on the part of person(s) responsible for inappropriate disposal.
Accordingly, disposal of computers must always be undertaken in compliance with University policy and procedure, as well as state and federal information protection and hazmat regulations. Consequences of improper disposal can range from disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment or contract, civil or criminal penalty, damage to the University reputation, and/or loss of funding.
Follow published asset disposition procedures. Asset disposition form is located at: http://www.facilities.neu.edu/forms.html. This process typically takes 10 to 15 days so please plan ahead.
For computers to be re-allocated within the University, all data must first be "wiped" from the disk drive(s), prior to reallocation. Conventional formatting or "FDISK" is not sufficient to assure data destruction. Disk "wiping" service is currently offered FREE OF CHARGE by the Information Security department. For service, contact itsecurity@neu.edu.
Computers awaiting pickup for reallocation or recycling must be stored inside an office or other non-public physical space, and must remain there until picked up. Storage in publicly-accessible areas such as hallways or loading docks is not permitted.
The Office of Information Security and Identity Management Services, in cooperation with the Facilities organization, is committed to helping support all members of the community dispose of computers safely and effectively. We ask your cooperation in helping maintain NU's leadership roles in both information protection and responsible recycling and re-use.

Is it possible to recycle confidential files?
Yes. shredding of confidential files is handled by an outside contractor. Upon request, arrangements can be made to have your confidential files shredded and recycled. Please call us at x 2735.

Who do I call for a pickup?
When mixed paper or bottles bins are 75 percent full, please call the Recycling office at (617) 373-2735. Normally, it takes two business days for a pickup. For cardboard, please call your building superintendent.

Do I have to remove staples, paper clips, or scotch tape?
No, all paper passes by a large magnet during the sorting phase of recycling, which removes these items. In fact spiral notebooks can be recycled too.

Can I recycle books?
Yes, an array of books can be recycled, such as, telephone, hardcover and paperback books. They may be recycled through your blue baskets, or if you have a large quantity, please call RE-NU at (617) 373-2735 for a bin.

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