Want to get rid of that ten-year-old computer or monitor? Don’t just toss it out with the general trash if you live or work in New York. New York requires recycling of electronic equipment, known as e-waste. According to a recent report issued by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, the State’s e-waste recycling program has been an overwhelming success. From 2011 through the end of 2014, when the program was voluntary, New Yorkers recycled more than 318 million pounds of e-waste.
The program became mandatory as of January 1, 2015. Manufacturers are required to establish recycling sites. A list of e-waste recycling locations is available on the NYSDEC website. Individuals, for-profit businesses with less than 50 employees, and not-for-profit businesses with less than 75 employees can recycle e-waste without charge. For profit businesses with 50 or more employees and not-for-profits with 75 or more employees may be charged a fee. More information on New York’s innovative program can be found here.