Today Dell announced a new program to recycle Dell-branded computer components for returning and non-returning Dell customers free of charge.  Dell already has a policy that the company will recycle any brand of computer or printer if you purchase a new Dell PC, with free pick-up. 

The new policy will also extend Dell's recycling initiative to any Dell-brand computer, anytime.  In essence, the new policy no longer just encourages users to purchase Dell as a value-add to remove the old PC.  In most cities in the US it is illegal to throw away PC components and other devices -- and many recycling companies charge a premium on older computer components that contain lead.

"We have a responsibility to our customers to recycle the products we make and sell," claimed Michael Dell. "Our direct relationships with consumers allow us to offer this easy and free service and we encourage others in our industry to do so as well."

The new service will start in Europe immediately, in the US by September 2006 and for the rest of the world by November. Given that the European Union already has strict laws in place for RoHS, with new laws coming up mandating battery recycling, it's hardly any surprise that Dell has already placed the framework for this program in Europe.