Washington’s FREE, convenient and environmentally responsible electronics recycling program has been operational since January 1, 2009. Products accepted for free at E-Cycle Washington drop-off sites include:
- Televisions
- Computers
- Computer monitors
- Portable or laptop computers
- Tablets
- E-readers (also called e-book readers)
Please note that computer peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and printers are not included in this program.
Who can use the program? Households, small businesses, schools & school districts, small governments, special purpose districts, and charities can recycle electronic products free of charge in this program. If you have more than 10 electronic items, please contact the WMMFA (Washington Materials Management and Financing Authority) at 1-855-674-5871 before bringing them to a collection location.
Where can I recycle? Call 1-800-RECYCLE or visit 1800recycle.wa.gov to find available electronic product recycling services in your area.
For more information and FAQs, visit the E-Cycle WA Frequently Asked Questions section on the E-cycle Washington homepage for more information.
Why recycle electronics? Many electronics, especially TVs and computers, contain toxic materials such as lead, cadmium and mercury. Reusing and recycling electronics keeps these toxic materials out of our landfills and incinerators and also recovers valuable resources. The electronic equipment this program collects will be taken apart and separated into materials such as glass, plastic, metal and toxic chemicals. All recycling will follow performance standards set up by the Department of Ecology.
What about my other electronics? Many other electronics can and should be recycled. You may need to pay a fee to recycle items the E-Cycle Washington program doesn’t cover. Recycling locations for covered electronic products may also take peripherals (such as mice, keyboards, speakers, printers, and scanners), cell phones, MP3 players, game consoles, and DVD players. Check 1800recycle.wa.gov and call ahead to see what items a recycler will accept.
Is it really “free”? Registered collection sites must accept televisions, computers, computer monitors, and laptop computers from households at no cost. There may be a charge for at-home pick-up, curbside services, or other premium services.
How do I know my electronics are being recycled properly? The program’s recyclers will take apart the electronic glass, plastic, metal and toxic chemicals. All E-Cycle Washington recyclers must meet the minimum performance standards in the Electronic Products Recycling Rule (WAC 173-900). In addition, all recyclers used by the WMMFA meet the voluntary Preferred Performance Standards found in Ecology’s ” Environmentally Sound Management and Performance Standards for Direct Processors.”
