[YTNUKLR]

I am getting conflicting opinions from my research. I am looking for *empirical data* either from a primary or secondary source about whether it is profitable to recycle computers, electronics, etc. (e-waste). Many people seem to say, "Don't waste your time," but there are a lot of variables:

a) cost of starting product, used electronics. Free?

b) environmental concerns. Cost of disposing certain chemicals, handling hazmat.

c) cost of processing, chemicals, etc.

d) variability of valuable metal retention. Apparently, many units are now made with less valuable metals. Approximately what rates for various electronics? What are the most valuable in terms of recycling (hard-drives? monitors? processors? circuit boards? wiring?)?

e) can you charge for this service? If so, at what rate?
e.1.) government subsidies (environmental clean-up, habitat protection, prevention of e-waste disposal going to Asia to be dealt with haphazardly and likely to the destruction of groundwater and clean air, etc.)?

If you have any good *empirical data*, please chime in.