End of Life Electronics Recycling

Escambia County residents and businesses can drop off, for no charge, electronics such as computers and all their parts, VCR's, fax machines, TVs, copiers, microwaves, and telephones at the Perdido Landfill. For large amounts of electronics call, 850-937-2160, to schedule a time for drop off.

End of life electronics are also collected from residents for no charge at Regional Roundups which are held quarterly at local high schools. For more information see the Regional Roundup page or call the Perdido Landfill at 850-937-2160.

Why Should I Recycle My Electronics?
The circuit boards inside these units contain lead, mercury, cadmium, and other heavy metals that could pose a threat to the environment if not properly disposed. The chips can sometimes be reused, but are usually melted down and used for new chips. The picture tube inside monitors and TVs contain between three and five pounds of lead, depending on the size. The front part, or screen, of the monitors and TVs are removed and can be used in the manufacturing of new products.

In the past decade, our growing dependence on electronic products both at home, and in the workplace, has given rise to a new environmental challenge: Electronic waste. A recent study by the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency shows that electronics already make up approximately 1 percent of the municipal waste stream. Research shows that electronics waste is growing at three times the rate of other municipal waste.Here's why you need to be concerned:

• According to the U.S. EPA, over 20 million personal computers became obsolete in 1998 and only 13 percent were reused or recycled.
• Electronic circuit boards, batteries, and color cathode ray tubes (CRTs) can contain hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, and hexavalent chromium. If improperly handled or disposed, these toxins can be released into the environment through incinerator ash or landfill leachate.
• n just one year, over 112 million pounds of valuable materials were recovered from disposed electronics for recycling and reuse. Materials included steel, glass, plastics and precious metals.

How can I reduce Electronic Waste?
To help reduce electronics waste remember:
Reuse:
Schools, non-profit organizations and lower-income families can benefit from your equipment if it is still functional.
Donate:
Many charitable organizations and training programs repair equipment for reuse.
Recycle:
A growing number of municipalities offer electronics collection as part of household hazardous waste collections or special events.

Buy "green" products. Look for electronics that:
* Are made with fewer toxins * Use recycled content * Are energy efficient * Are designed for easy upgrade or disassembly * Use less packaging * Offer lease or take-back options

Who recycles electronics?
All of these organizations can process or de-manufacture electronics. Please contact the individual processor for more information on specifications and types of materials accepted.

Creative Recycling Systems, Inc.
Global Investment Recovery, Inc.
Jack's Recycling
Quicksilver Recycling Services
Phone: 813-886-1494
Fax: 813-886-6252
Toll Free: 877-937-3873
Recycle America Alliance
Electronic Xchange
S.E.E.R. (Secure Environmental Electronics Recycling)
6902 7th Avenue East
Tampa, FL 33619
Phone: 888-600-7337
Fax: 813-621-5457
Superior Special Services, Inc.
Unicor

These organizations are a few examples of markets and uses for recycled electronics.
Share the Technology
Solid Waste Information eXchange, Inc.