The E-Waste Problem and Our Work For Solutions

Shortcut back to this page:
www.goodrecyclers.com

This is too complicated. Why don't I just put it in the trash?!

Learn about the toxics in our electronics, and why they don't belong in the trash.

Recycle Your Rechargeable Batteries and Cell phones

RBRC - the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation has drop off locations in many cities. Use their location finder. They take batteries and cell phones. RBRC is now an e-Steward.

Certification program coming soon.

By 2010, the E-Stewards program will be turned into a fully accredited certification program, with third party auditing. The program will begin as a US certification program and then expand to be a global standard for electronics recycling.

Learn More about e-Stewards certification.

Overview | How to recycle | Responsible recyclers e-Stewards | Manufacturer Takeback

Guide To Recycling Your Electronics

If you want to get rid of electronic equipment that you no longer use and want to protect the environment, follow these steps:

1. Don't throw old electronics in the trash!

Don't put your old electronic products or batteries in the trash (even if it's legal in your state). The toxics inside these products don't belong in the landfill.

2. Donate for reuse if possible.

Donate working items for reuse whenever possible.

Most reuse organizations are local non-profits, so check with your local solid waste agency for options near you.

3. Find a responsible recycler (an e-Steward) in your state.

If your product is too old or too broken to donate, you should recycle it. But please be careful in choosing your recycler.

Sadly, most recyclers simply export your old products, dumping them on developing nations.

Click here to go to our map and find a responsible recycler in your state who pledges NOT to export your old products to developing countries, and to learn more about why e-stewards are the most responsible option.

4. No e-Steward near you? Try the manufacturers' free recycling programs

Most of the computer companies and some TV companies have voluntary takeback programs, where they will recycle your old products for free. Some offer trade in value or money back for your products.

Click here for our list of the computer and TV manufacturers, and details on each program.

5. Still Can't Find A Convenient Location? Try these retailers.

Best Buy takes back electronics at every Best Buy store. Recycling TVs (up to 32 inches) will cost $10, but they give you a coupon towards a purchase. (Recycling of Best Buys own house brands is free.) This does not include household appliances.

Find Best Buy's recycling program info here

Find a Best Buy near you.

Staples. Dell partners with Staples for recycling. You can drop off Dell computers, monitors, laptops, printers, and faxes for free, or other brands for $10.

6. Cell Phone Recycling

cellphone picture Cell phone recycling is very easy, since you can mail them back (for free) to some recyclers. Here are two good nationwide options, with companies that have signed the e-Steward Pledge not to export e-waste to developing countries:

Capstone Wireless - Use their website to request a free UPS shipping label. They have a buy back program, so you may get money back for your old phone.

Call2Recycle - The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corp also accepts old cell phones for free recycling. They have drop off sites in many cities (usually in stores). Use their location finder to enter your zip code to find the closest.