Recycling events like the ones organized by local officials will be even more useful to residents come the ban on curbside disposal of electronics waste in January 2015.
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Following the announcement last week that New York City will be implementing a ban on curbside disposal of electronics waste as of January 2015, Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr. has penned a letter to the Department of Sanitation requesting more drop-off locations for old equipment.
The ban is the third and final phase of the NY State Electronic Equipment Recycling and Reuse Act law, governing annual statewide recycling starting in 2011. The law covers electronic items including but not limited to: computers, e-readers, televisions, printers, VCRs, DVRs, and DVD players. Those who violate the e-waste disposal rules that become effective Jan. 1 could face fines of up to $100 per offense.
Retail drop-off programs (mandated by the same law) allow individuals to bring e-waste to Goodwill, Salvation Army, Best Buy, and other locations, and some offer free mailback and/or pickup services. The NYC Department of Sanitation, with Electronic Recyclers International, is also launching e-cycleNYC, with funding from electronics manufacturers. This innovative program allows NYC apartment buildings with 10 or more units to sign up for a free and convenient service to pick up and recycle unwanted electronics.
Twice yearly, Addabbo and Assemblyman Mike Miller have organized e-waste recycling events in Forest Park. Addabbo and Miller are in discussions to do additional events, since NYC residents will soon be without the opportunity to dispose of such waste curbside.
“My Recycling Events have given the local community a place to leave their old electronics and have the e-waste disposed of in an environmentally friendly way,” said Addabbo. “Now with new city regulations, I believe the administration needs to make it more convenient and easier to dispose of electronics and in a safe manner that also protects the environment.”
For a full list of participating take-back programs, along with complete details about the law and a list of covered equipment, visit www.nyc.gov/electronics.
By Eugénie Bisulco
