With respect to John Loader, his argument that old PCs sent to third-world countries will be dumped at the end of their life applies equally well to new PCs sent there as well (Recycle paradox of charity IT, Letters blog, letters.computing.co.uk).

As for energy, new and retired PCs use power in similar amounts anyway, and none will use power when switched off at the mains.

The problem is recycling of any equipment in third-world countries, and it is irrelevant whether it is originally new or old.

However, if perfectly usable out-of-date PCs can be  of benefit, they should be  refreshed and sent over.

D Forbes