Modified: January 23, 2015 4:31pm
NYS Bans Electronics in Curbside Trash; Proper Recycling Encouraged
ERIE COUNTY, NY— A new law making it illegal to put electronic waste in the trash or at the curb with regular trash goes into effect on January 1st in New York State in an effort to both eliminate e-waste entering landfills and also boost recycling of the materials contained in electronic equipment. The new law includes common electronic gear such as computers and their peripheral equipment, televisions, DVD players, and smaller portable electronic devices. A full list can be found here.
“The New Year brings with it new laws along with a new awareness of our responsibility to the environment and to future generations, and we must make the effort to protect both by being responsible stewards of our world today. Electronic devices are indispensable to our lives, but are dangerous when carelessly disposed of,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “Recycling electronics and eliminating e-waste are steps we must take today towards building a cleaner Erie County in the future. All residents should be aware of the law and make sure they are properly recycling their electronics.”
According to the US EPA, e-waste is the fastest-growing municipal waste stream in the U.S.; however, a large part of what is called “e-waste” is not actually waste but rather electronic equipment or parts that can be recycled for materials or marketed for reuse. Recent cost increases related to e-waste disposal, particularly for items such as TVs and non flat-screen computer monitors, have also put pressure on municipal disposal budgets. The NYS e-waste law, one of the most comprehensive in the country, also regulates the disposal and recycling of cell phones, rechargeable batteries, and electronics for commercial entities.
Erie County has been working with local municipalities, represented by our area’s two solid waste boards, to increase the availability of e-waste recycling sites. More information on what items are accepted by local municipalities can be found at the county’s website, while other information on local recycling opportunities can be had by calling (716) 858-4805.
For more information:
On the Erie County Department of Environment & Planning, visit http://www2.erie.gov/environment/