Microsoft Ireland launches programme to aid environment

Microsoft Ireland today launched a new environmentally friendly programme designed to increase the number of low-cost computers available to charities and schools whilst keeping serviceable computers out of landfills.

The Microsoft Authorised Refurbisher (MAR) programme, was launched at the Rehab Recycle facility in Tallaght and will provide companies with a means of disposing unused or end-of-life computer equipment which can then be serviced, re-conditioned and installed with new software.

These computers can then be donated to a charity or school who might not otherwise be able to afford technology to access the information age.

The programme benefits the environment by helping to keep serviceable computers out of landfills by extending their useful lifetime outside of a corporate environment.

There are currently four companies in Ireland actively refurbishing computers as part of the MAR programme and over 1,000 computers have been routed to charities and schools to date.

Tom Murphy, head of public relations and community affairs at Microsoft said: “Already a number of leading environmentally conscious companies are availing of the MAR programme and our aim is that as many companies as possible look at the programme as a realistic alternative to scrapping unused technology while knowing that the donated computers will have a valuable extended life in a growing number of charities and schools.”

Speaking at the launch, Michael Horgan, Director of Enterprises, Rehab Group said: “Our facilities, including the plant here in Tallaght that is hosting today’s launch, are all fully permitted and offer a unique, high-quality IT re-use, refurbish and recycle service to customers the length and breadth of Ireland.”