Reduce, reuse, recycle old electronics

SACRAMENTO — Each year thousands of computers, monitors, televisions and other electronic items are replaced in California.

The California Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB) wants to remind consumers that it is illegal to throw away old television sets and computer monitors because of the hazardous materials they contain. Instead, consumers must recycle these items at an electronic waste recycling location.

“eRecycling is a great way to help protect California’s residents and keep our environment safe from harmful materials,” said Margo Reid Brown, CIWMB chair. “The Waste Board is trying to make it easier and more convenient to properly dispose of outdated electronics with over 600 locations to recycle them.”

It is estimated that millions of computer monitors and televisions are stockpiled in California garages, closets and attics. The eRecycle program is meant to reduce the amount of e-waste going to landfills by communicating to the public that electronic products can be conveniently reused, refurbished or recycled.

Consumers should follow these eRecycling tips:

• Know what items are considered e-waste. Some e-waste products include televisions, laptop computers, portable DVD players, plasma and LCD televisions.

• Visit http://www.erecycle.org and click on “Find an E-waste Recycling Location” on the righthand side of the Home Page. Select the county and the type of material to be recycled and click the “Search” button. This will bring up information on the nearest eRecycle location(s), as well as any associated disposal fees and hours of operation.

• If the electronics are in good working order, consider selling them or donating them to reduce electronic waste in the waste stream.