Loaded with heavy metals like lead, mercury and worse, discarded technology equipment is awful for the environment. When the time comes to upgrade, think about how to get rid of your old gear the smart, green way.

• Most Goodwill locations will accept computer gear, working or not, for refurbishment or recycling. In addition, nearly every community has an electronics recycling program these days, even if it’s open only a few times throughout the year.

• The EPA keeps a large list of recycling and donation centers at epa.gov/epaoswer/hazwaste/recycle/ecycling/donate.htm. Also check eiae.org for listings.

• Almost all manufacturers offer trade-in services to recycle your old equipment, even if another vendor made it. Check the vendor’s Web site for details. • Batteries can be recycled at many drugstore and hardware store chains. This is especially critical for nickel-based batteries, which are very hazardous and should never be thrown in the trash.

• When all else fails, try selling your old gear on eBay.