On Friday, July 1st, Vermont’s new electronic waste (e-waste) recycling program will begin, providing free and convenient recycling of e-waste to Vermont residents, charities, schools, and small businesses. The recycling program, known as “Vermont E-Cycles”, was created by a VPIRG-backed law passed by legislators last year requiring manufacturers of electronics to finance the cost of collecting and recycling their discarded products. This type of “producer responsibility” program not only eases the financial burden carried by municipalities, but it also provides a powerful incentive for manufacturers to design their electronics to last longer and to exclude the toxic materials that make recycling so difficult and expensive.
Below are some answers to frequently asked questions in order to help you better understand and take advantage of this exciting program.
Who is eligible for free recycling?
This program is available to Vermont residents, charities, schools, and small businesses with 10 or fewer employees.
What electronics can be recycled for free?
Televisions, computers, monitors, printers, and computer peripherals (mice, keyboards, etc.).
How can I find a collection location near me?
Collection locations can be found on the Vermont E-Cycles website. Click here to find a collection location near you: http://www.anr.state.vt.us/ewaste/facilitylist.aspx.
Please note that this website is in the process of being updated and may not immediately reflect all of the collection locations available. If you continue to have trouble locating a collection location near you, please let us know by contacting Charity Carbine-March at ccarbine@vpirg.org or at 223-8421 x4108.
What electronic devices are banned from the landfill?
- Computers
- Peripherals (mice, keyboards, etc.)
- Computer monitors
- Cathode ray tubes (CRTs)
- Televisions
- Printers
- Personal electronics such as PDAs and personal music players (MP3 players, etc.)
- Electronic game consoles
- Fax machines
- Wireless telephones
- Telephones
- Answering machines
- VCRs
- DVD players
- Digital converter boxes;
- Stereo equipment
- Power supply cords (as used to charge electronic devices)
Where can I recycle e-waste that is banned from the landfill, but not covered under the free recycling program?
Although the landfill ban includes devices that are not part of the free recycling program, these electronics can be recycled for a fee at collection locations participating in the state program. Click here to find a collection location near you: http://www.anr.state.vt.us/dec/e-waste/WhereCanIRecycle.htm.
Where can I find more information about Vermont’s e-waste recycling program?
You can visit the Vermont E-Cycles website at www.vtecycles.org