Recycling Computers and Home Electronics
Article • Related topics: RecyclingElectronics recycling is good for the environment! It conserves resources including non-renewable precious metals, petroleum products, energy, and more! It also saves landfill space. Did you know that an estimated 60 million computers will be deemed obsolete yearly in the U.S? Electronics recycling also reduces hazards by keeping potentially hazardous materials out of landfills, and promotes jobs in the reuse, repair and recycling industry.
Electronics may be recycled at the District Transfer Station. Nominal fees apply.
Why is there a fee?
- Time and skilled labor are required to collect, transport, sort, and repair equipment.
- The reuse value of the equipment may be less than the cost of handling and repairing.
- Some parts (esp. older monitors) have an associated cost for dismantling and recycling.
Larger Loads of Electronics
If you have a large load of electronics, please call us first (388-2333) to schedule an appointment. Fees for large loads or large individual items will be based on weight.
Other Recycling Options
- Retroworks & Marion Munford Memorial Thrift Shop in Middlebury accepts computers that are less than 3 years old and in good working condition. A recycling fee applies. Call 388-3608 for details.
- Recycle North in Burlington accepts computers for recycling. A fee applies for older machines. Call 658-4143 for details.
- LG Electronics has a national take-back and electronics recycling program, offering free recycling of LG electronics and appliances. They will take back LG brands, as well as Zenith and Goldstar. Consumers can drop off up to 5 items for free.
- Dell, HP, and Apple also have their own computer takeback programs.
- Also see this consolidated list of electronics recycling programs nationwide.
News Update!
Vermont recently became the 21st state to pass an electronic waste (E-waste) recycling law, which establishes producer responsibility for collecting and recycling E-waste from households, charities, schools and businesses. The law will ban disposal of E-waste on January 1, 2011, and will provide convenient and free collection of certain electronics beginning on July 1, 2011. The District Transfer Station will remain a collection point under this new system, so stay tuned for more information!
For more on the new E-waste law, click here to visit the State of Vermont E-Waste Recycling Program web site.