How to Recycle Computer Parts Safely via the Parts to PC Workshop
Youth Workshops
| Class Schedule | ||
|---|---|---|
| May 2, 2026-full | May 16, 2026-full | Saturday, May 30, 2026-Full |
| Saturday, June 13, 2026 | Saturday, Jun 27, 2026 | July 11, 2026-full |
| Saturday, July 25, 2026 | Sat. Aug 8th, 2026 | Sat. Aug 22, 2026 |
Electronics Recycling and the Circular Economy
Traditional waste management pipelines are not built to handle modern hardware efficiently. Valuable components such as central processing units (CPUs), random-access memory (RAM) sticks, graphics cards, and aluminum chassis are frequently lost in conventional landfills. Through structured electronics recycling, these items are systematically recovered, sorted, and cataloged.
By prioritizing responsible recycling, our organization keeps functional parts in circulation. This reduces the global demand for raw mining materials and limits the environmental footprint associated with manufacturing brand-new processing equipment.
Data destruction and Hardware Repurposing
The biggest barrier preventing individuals and businesses from donating their hardware is data vulnerability. Discarded storage nodes often contain highly sensitive financial records, passwords, and corporate secrets.
To address this concern, every single hard drive and solid-state drive (SSD) processed through our facilities undergoes rigorous, certified data destruction protocols before it is touched by a student. We ensure that all historical digital footprints are entirely unrecoverable, establishing a framework for secure computer recycling that protects consumer privacy while maximizing hardware recovery.
Sustainable Recycling Pipelines Across North America
The logistical challenge of managing electronic surplus stretches across the entire United States and Canada. In municipal hubs, industrial electronic recycling initiatives help clean up local commercial waste streams.
Whether processing bulk upgrades from large offices or taking in individual contributions from residents, establishing accessible urban infrastructure ensures that scrap metal, circuit boards, and older laptops are processed under strict environmental compliance standards.
Learn To Build A Computer From Scratch
For Youth Aged 12 to 15
Wouldn’t it be cool to learn how to build a computer from scratch? Well, ERA created a brand new workshop for exactly that purpose. Parts to PC will give you hands-on experience disassembling and assembling a computer. You will also learn about what all of the pieces inside of a computer do and how to install them. The best part is there is no cost to participate!
From disassembled parts to a working machine, Parts to PC offers a full-circle approach that will conclude with powering on and testing the assembled finished product. Students will walk away from the experience with practical knowledge for troubleshooting hardware issues as well as a basic understanding of all of the elements working together inside of a computer. You never know, it could even be the first step toward building your own robot!
The two-hour workshop will be held at our Calgary depot, located at 1315 73rd Ave, S.E, Calgary from 10:15am to 12:15pm (pre-registration is mandatory). With class sizes restricted to ten participants, students will receive dedicated instruction on the hardware elements of common computers. Students will assemble a computer with the help of a qualified and knowledgeable instructor.
Please print off consent form below:
Contact Us Today And Make A Difference In Your Community
Talk to us about becoming an Awareness Ambassador in your community, setting up your next charity fundraiser, or starting a community clean up event. Together, we can work towards a future with less e-waste.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Parts to PC workshop?
Parts to PC is a youth workshop created by ERA that gives young people hands on experience building a computer from scratch. Participants disassemble and then reassemble a machine while learning what each internal component does and how to install it. It is a full circle experience that ends with powering on and testing the finished computer.
Who can take part in Parts to PC?
The workshop is designed for youth between the ages of 12 and 15. Class sizes are kept small, with a maximum of ten participants, so each student gets dedicated instruction from a knowledgeable guide. A signed consent form is required before a young person can attend.
How much does the Parts to PC workshop cost?
There is no cost to participate in Parts to PC. The workshop is part of ERA’s community and youth education efforts, so it is offered free of charge to families. Pre registration is required to reserve one of the limited spots.
Where and when is the workshop held?
Parts to PC takes place at the ERA Calgary depot, located at 1315 73rd Ave SE in Calgary. The two hour session runs once a month from 10:15am to 12:15pm, usually on a Saturday. Specific dates are posted on the Parts to PC page, and spots tend to fill up, so early registration is encouraged.
What will my child learn in the workshop?
Students learn how the major components inside a computer work together and how to install them, then put that knowledge into practice by assembling a working machine. Along the way they pick up practical skills for troubleshooting hardware issues. Many participants walk away more confident with technology, and for some it sparks an interest in building robots or pursuing computer science.
Does my child need any prior experience with computers?
No prior experience is needed to enjoy and benefit from Parts to PC. A qualified and knowledgeable instructor guides students through every step, from disassembly to final testing. The small class size means there is plenty of support for first time builders.
How many students are in each Parts to PC session?
Each session is limited to ten participants to keep the experience hands on and personal. This restriction ensures every student receives individual attention from the instructor and gets real time at the workbench. Because spaces are limited, pre registration is mandatory.
Do I need to register in advance?
Yes, pre registration is mandatory for Parts to PC, since each session has only ten spots. Registering ahead of time guarantees your child a place and helps the team prepare the right number of workstations. You will also need to print and bring the consent form provided on the workshop page.
Is a parent or guardian consent required to attend?
A signed consent form is required for every young participant, which is why the team asks families to complete the paperwork before the session. While specific drop off and supervision details are best confirmed directly with the team, the consent form is the key requirement for attendance. Reaching out ahead of time lets you sort out any questions about the day.
How do I sign my child up for Parts to PC?
To register, visit the Parts to PC page on the ERA website, choose an upcoming date, and complete the pre registration along with the consent form. Spots are limited to ten per session, so signing up early is the best way to secure a place. If you have questions, you can contact the team or call 1-877-9EWASTE.