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Computers and small electronics seem to become obsolete at a mindboggling pace. You can buy the latest laptop or MP3 player, and chances are, a newer, better model has come out before you get it home. Furthermore, many of the hottest gadgets aren't really designed to be fixed once they break. Often, repairing them costs just as much as the newer models.

These rapid technological advancements have led to another problem. "E-waste"—computer monitors, televisions and other electronic waste—is the fastest growing portion of the U.S. waste stream, sending heavy metals (such as lead and mercury), flame retardants and other toxic chemicals to landfills. In 2005, electronics accounted for 2.63 million tons of waste—only 12.5 percent of which was recycled.

So what's the green techie to do?

Computers

* Repair as long as you can.

"The manufacture of brand new computer models uses more than four times the energy and resources it would take to extend the life of an older machine for another few years, says Sheila Davis, executive director of the Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition—so it's best to always repair it yours if possible. Memory can be added to slow computers (1 GB will run about $100 and you can install it yourself). But it's important to consider the repair process, says Davis: Name brand computers often have proprietary parts and need to be shipped back to the manufacturer—or sometimes even overseas—to be fixed. "White box" computers, that is, generic models without name brand parts, can easily be upgraded at local computer stores, but warranties for them can be tricky. They come without software, and finding technical support may be difficult. White box models are available online or at large computer chains.

If you prefer a name-brand item, choose one with a strong takeback program that will guarantee your computer won't end up in a landfill. Dell takes back all branded products for free; others accept new models or charge a small fee. Visit www.computertakeback.com for a comparison of the most popular brands' policies.

Also, opt for laptops, which use less energy than desktops. But if a desktop is necessary, replace a non-working cathode-ray tube (CRT) monitor, replace it with a flat-panel liquid crystal display: A 15-inch LCD screen uses about 18 watts of energy, as opposed to about 200 for CRT's.