Electronic Waste & Light Bulb Recycling

Technological advances and the resulting increase in electronic equipment pose a unique situation in terms of waste disposal. While electronic waste, also known as e-waste only represents a small portion of the waste stream (about 1%), the potential impact on the environment is high. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the increasing amount of electronic waste may cause environmental hazards. The EPA contends that many of the materials found in electronic equipment (e.g. computers, mobile phones, and batteries) can present hazards to the environment and to human health.

To encourage consumers to recycle and dispose of electronic devices in an environmentally sound manner, many companies have established a recycling program for consumer electronics.

Office Depot stores across the country are now offering a low cost recycling service for consumer electronics.　Boxes can be purchased for $5, $10 or $15. The box is then taken home and filled with electronics. The open box is then returned to the store.　 The store will then ship the material for recycling. For information on the Office Depot Program click here.

Costco has a zero landfill, free e-waste recycling program. The trade-in program is available to all customers of Costco who elect to trade in or recycle any qualifying consumer electronic product currently offered by the program. Based on the configuration and condition of your item, Costco will offer to purchase your item at the value displayed by the trade-in value estimator. For information on the Costco trade-in program click here.

Compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulb recycling is important in preventing mercury from entering into the waste stream and the environment. Fluorescent light bulbs use approximately one-quarter of the energy of a common incandescent bulb. Fluorescent bulbs last an average of 10,000 hours. Whereas, normal incandescent bulbs have a life expectancy of about 750 hours, creating a high potential for saving energy.

Equally as important is the responsibility of proper disposal of these energy saving products. Spent lighting products are the second largest source of mercury contamination in our municipal solid waste systems. Recycling of fluorescent light bulbs keeps toxic mercury out of the environment, where even a few ounces can be a danger to wildlife, fish and humans. CFL bulbs can be brought to the Township Household Hazard Waste Drop-Off Events held the first Saturday of May and October.