Households and Individuals
I don’t want to throw away my old TV and computer. What are my options?
- Several manufacturers have take-back programs for older make and model computers.
- Some retail stores accept smaller electronic devices year-round for recycling.
- Communities host special events for recycling various electronic devices.
- Some charities across the state also accept functioning electronics as donations.
- Contact a local recycler. Some communities have recyclers or processors that accept consumer e-waste at their facilities – pick up or drop off. There may be a small fee for certain items, such as $5 for CRT/monitors.
| Helpful Hint
The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC) sponsors the national program, Call2Recycle™, that helps recycle used portable rechargeable batteries and old cell phones. Rechargeable batteries are commonly found in cordless power tools, cellular and cordless phones, laptop computers, camcorders, digital cameras, and remote control toys. RBRC recycles the following battery chemistries: Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd), Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH), Lithium Ion (Li-ion) and Small Sealed Lead* (Pb). RBRC is dedicated to keeping rechargeable batteries and cell phones out of our nation’s solid waste stream and preserving natural resources by identifying locations that accept rechargeable batteries and cell phones for recycling. |
Manufacturer Programs
Each manufactuer’s take-back or recycling program is unique. Some are free while others charge a fee. You will double your recycling options if you research the programs offered by both the original equipment manufacturer for a device you are replacing along with what is offered by the manufacturer of a newly purchased electronic item.
Retail Programs
The following national retail chains offer in-store recycling of small personal electronic devices like cell phones, pagers, and PDAs, as well as ink jet cartridges. NOTE: Other local and regional based stores not on this list also offer the same service.
- Best Buy
- Circuit City
- Office Depot
- OfficeMax
- Staples
| Helpful Hint
You can recycle your old iPod and get a discount on a new one at Apple retail stores. |
Special Community Events
The Tennessee Mobile Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Service travels around the state offering safe disposal and recycling for unwanted household products than can be dangerous to the environment if not handled properly. Since 2003 the program has collected over 900,000 pounds of e-waste from Tennessee residents. View the current collection schedule.
Donation
EPA’s “Plug Into Recycling” program provides information on numerous electronics reuse and donation programs. View their resources.
