How to safely dispose of unwanted electronics
Looking to upgrade your television to one with all the latest and greatest features? Have you thought about what you’re going to do with your old one? Instead of hauling it into the garage to die a dusty death, consider how you can give the old set a new life.
Remember, televisions (and other electronics) have a mix of metals in their circuit boards – some that pose a danger to health and the environment and some that can be retrieved and repurposed. Unwanted and broken TVs and electronics should not be disposed of in your household trash or recycling bin. Here are some alternatives for your old electronics.
1. Find a new home in your home.
Does it still work? Consider moving your television to a different room or use as a screen for your work-from-home station.
2. Donate to a good cause.
If your old television works, someone might want it. You could donate your old one to a thrift store or a local non-profit. Try an online search for organizations that take used electronics in good working order. Or offer it on Freecycle.org.
3. Use the FREE home service for convenient and safe collection.
Get rid of your electronics the right way by calling Waste Management’s At Your Door Special Collection® service. This is included in your waste services rate in the City of Farmington. You can schedule a home collection at
www.wmatyourdoor.com or call 1-800-449-7587 (Mon-Fri 5:00 am-5:00 pm PT).
What happens next? The e-waste collected by Waste Management’s At Your Door team in New Mexico will be taken to a certified facility where working electronics are refurbished and resold and non-working machines are carefully broken down into component parts. Any harmful materials, such as mercury and lead, are safely and responsibly handled. The facility recycles plastic, glass, and valuable metals whenever possible.
You’ll enjoy your new flat screen even more knowing that you’ve disposed of your old TV the safe, environmentally friendly way.