Repurposed Labs, Giving A New Purpose To Old Computers
Every year thousands of used computers are sent to salvage as companies and families keep pace with technological advances.
A study commissioned by Environment Canada estimated that 91,000 tonnes of IT and telecom equipment were recycled and disposed in 2010, with computers and monitors accounted for 70% of this total.
At the same time, nonprofit organizations are in desperate need of used computers particularly to provide internet access for at-risk or low income groups; whether to search for a job, reconnect with family in other cities or take education classes online.
That’s why Repurposed Labs was born, an initiative to collect used computers so they can be repurposed to provide free internet access for members of the community.
Thanks to the generous donation of used laptops from MacPherson Leslie & Tyerman (MLT), there are now Repurposed Labs at White Buffalo Youth Lodge and Core Neighbourhood Youth Coop in Saskatoon.
These first two labs are just pilot projects, but come fall we plan to expand the initiative to deploy additional computer labs in the city, and hopefully with enough donations, in remote communities across the province.
For more information visit our website or become a fan on Facebook.