If you received new electronics and gadgets over the holidays you may be wondering what to do with the old ones, the state Department of Natural Resources is launching a new push encouraging you to recycle them.
Cyber Works in Green Bay is one of many DNR-certified collection sites.
"We accept anything with a plug," owner Jim Overly said, "so if it's an electronic device, we will take it here."
That includes electronics like computers, TVs, and cell phones, and also non-electronic items.
"If you had a refrigerator or a freon-bearing item, we take those as well," Overly said.
Many electronic items like TVs with glass monitors have lead and phosphorus in them, which can be harmful to the environment -- which is why the DNR says it's important to recycle them.
"We don't want the lead to end up in the environment somehow. You know, if
it's just smashed on the side of the road or otherwise dumped
improperly, it could get into soil or water and potentially cause
pollution," the DNR's "E-Cycle" coordinator, Sarah Murray, said.
- To search for drop-off sites near you or to recycle specific items, click here
When certified sites like Cyber Works collect the items, they go to DNR-certified recyclers to make sure the job gets done properly.
"All of the equipment is kept in the United States, though. Once the recycler has it, it's actually broken down into its base components and stripped for metals -- coppers, steels," Overly explained.
Which can be cost-effective.
"We're able to save energy and reduce environmental costs by re-using the materials instead of getting new ones," Murray said.
While helping the environment at the same time.
