Solid Waste Management Department

Electronics Recycling

Did you know that approximately 3 million pounds of electronics becomes obsolete in the United States each day? And between 2000 and 2007, more than 500 million personal computers become obsolete in the United States.

Used electronic equipment, more specifically computer monitors and televisions, pose an environmental threat if not managed properly. Computer monitors and televisions contain cathode ray tubes (CRTs), which are leaded glass picture tubes - devices used to shield viewers from harmful X-rays generated by the screen. A typical desktop computer monitor contains approximately 4 pounds of lead. Circuit boards contain heavy metals such as cadmium, mercury and chromium. Health effects can be serious if these items accumulate in landfills and the heavy metals leach into soil and/or groundwater.

So instead of throwing these electronics away when you no longer want them, you should donate them for reuse or have them recycled. Electronics that can be donated or recycled rather than thrown away include computer monitors, processing units, computer speakers, scanners, keyboards, mice, fax machines and copiers. If your computer still works, consider donating it to a local organization that will refurbish it. View details about local companies that accept computers and other electronic equipment for donation and recycling.

For more information, visit the Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance DPPEA website*

*Not a City of Durham site.