Electronics Recycling

NYC residents can discard unwanted or broken electronics (computers, monitors, TVs, cell phones) in the trash, but recycling these items keeps hazardous materials out of the waste stream and the environment. See Electronics Recycling Info below.

Rechargeable batteries (found in cell phones, tools, toys, laptop computers, etc.) must be recycled. It is illegal for New York City residents to discard rechargeable batteries in the trash or in residential recycling containers. All NYC stores that sell rechargeable batteries or products that contain rechargeable batteries (with the exception of small food stores) must accept up to ten batteries of the same shape and size as they sell.

All City agencies and schools, as well as businesses and institutions (including nonprofits), are required to recycle computer equipment, unless it is donated or resold for reuse.

At DSNY events, clothing and linens are also collected for donation. These items can be donated year-round at many nonprofit organizations. For info on where to donate clothing and other items in New York City, check out NYC Stuff Exchange.

ELECTRONICS RECYCLING INFO

Take-back programs
DSNY events
Other programs
Cell phones
Electronics recycling law - Local Law 13 of 2008
2009 digital transition
Frequently asked questions

ALSO SEE

• New homes for old stuff for donating, selling, or trading your electronics
• Electronics in tips for your home for purchasing, warranties, and upgrades
• Electronic equipment for office waste prevention tips
• End-of-life product management in tips for your business
• New York State Wireless Recycling Act about recycling cell phones at local wireless stores.
• NYC Rechargeable Battery Law for how consumers can recycle these items at local retailers.

Manufacturer & Retailer Take-Back Programs

Many electronics manufacturers and retailers have implemented product stewardship programs where they "take-back" electronics (usually via a mail-back program) for recycling. Some charge a fee, some are free, and some will pay for items with value.  Some also offer home pickup and/or coupons for discounts on the purchase of new products. See resources for a list of these programs.

Additionally, some retailers will accept electronics for recycling when new purchases are made. When purchasing new electronics, be sure to ask about their trade-in or recycling options.

All wireless telephone service providers that sell cell phones in the State of New York must accept them for reuse or recycling from any person at no cost.

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DSNY Electronic Recycling & Clothing Donation Events

The DSNY Bureau of Waste Prevention, Reuse and Recycling offers electronics recycling events to NYC residents twice a year, through coordination with private companies and nonprofit organizations.

Read about previous DSNY electronics recycling events. For questions about DSNY electronics recycling events, go to frequently asked questions about electronics.

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Other Collection Programs

In addition to the Department of Sanitation, other community organizations periodically sponsor electronics recycling events and drop-off sites in NYC. Visit the NYC WasteLe$$ Events Calendar  to find event listings. Organizations include:

• Goodwill Industries
  Drop off your old computer and peripherals (keyboards, mice, printers, etc.) at any  Goodwill store or donation site for FREE. Goodwill accepts any brand, in any condition.  Equipment will be responsibly recycled, thanks to RECONNECT, a partnership between Dell and Goodwill. Residents are responsible for removing data from hard drives . Visit Goodwill Industries for locations.

• Lower East Side Ecology Center

• Per Scholas
  In addition to events, Per Scholas accepts materials at their Bronx location. Computers, computer peripherals and televisions are accepted. Call first to schedule an appointment, fees may apply.
  1575 Bronx River Avenue
  Bronx, NY 10460
  (718) 772-0651

• Recycle This!

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Cell Phone Recycling

Cell phones have a wide range of recycling and reuse opportunities within the City. The Mayor’s Office to Combat Domestic Violence supports the Verizon Wireless Hopeline Program®, which refurbishes and recycles donated cell phones to benefit local survivors of domestic violence.

In addition, there are many other opportunities to donate used cell phones. Visit New Homes for Old Stuff for more information.

In addition to these donation programs, cell phones can be recycled. All wireless telephone service providers that sell cell phones in the State of New York must accept them for reuse or recycling from any person at no cost. Visit resources to find information on retailer and wireless providor recycling programs.

If the phone is still working and valuable, you may be able to sell it or trade it in. See resources for a list of online trade-in programs, or visit the NYC Stuff Exchange for a list of materials exchanges where you can buy or sell used items such as cell phones.

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2009 Transition to Digital Television

At midnight on February 17, 2009, television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting in analog and switch to 100% digital broadcasting. Most televisions will continue to work without any additional purchase or modification.

Any high definition television, or any analog television that is connected to a pay TV service (Cable or Satellite) will continue to work as before. Analog televisions not connected to a pay TV service will continue to work with a TV converter box. TV converter boxes are available at retailers throughout NYC.

The US Department of Commerce is providing up to two coupons per household, worth $40 each, to use towards the purchase of a TV converter box. Apply online, by calling 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009), or by mailing their application to PO Box 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000.

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