E-Cycles: free electronics recycling

Since Jan. 1, 2009, the Oregon E-Cycles program has allowed individuals and businesses to take up to seven computers, laptops, monitors and TVs at a time to approved Oregon E-Cycles sites, free of charge. On Jan. 1, 2010, “part two” went into effect: a disposal ban for those same electronics.  

Passed by the 2007 Oregon Legislature, Oregon E-Cycles requires electronics manufacturers to finance the recycling of these electronics. The program ensures proper handling and management of the materials collected. All approved recyclers are required by DEQ to follow certain environmentally sound management practices, including tracking and documenting recycling locations, and showing how the materials were handled. This level of diligence provides assurance to Oregonians that their discarded electronics are safely reused or recycled, and that toxic materials do not harm people or the environment here or abroad.  

The state’s disposal ban on computers, monitors and televisions goes into effect Jan.1, 2010. Starting then, Oregonians must recycle these electronics – they will be banned from going into garbage or disposal sites such as landfills, transfer stations and incinerators. The purpose is to make sure old electronics are reused or properly recycled. Reuse and recycling save energy, conserve resources, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts. In addition, requiring manufacturers to take responsibility for end-of-life management of their products encourages them to design products with less waste and fewer toxics.

To find an Oregon E-Cycles location near you, go to www.oregonecycles.org or call 1-888-532-9253. Other electronics such as printers, scanners, copiers, etc. can be recycled but may not be free.