Annual recycling event scheduled for Saturday

Cook Inletkeeper announces the Ninth Annual Homer Electronics Recycling Day will take place from 10 a.m.-3p.m. Saturday at Spenard Builders Supply.

Electronic waste is the fastest growing part of the waste stream. Electronics may be safe to use, but when discarded they can leak toxic chemicals like lead, mercury and cadmium. One computer monitor alone can contain up to eight pounds of lead. Through responsible recycling of electronic waste, these toxins can be kept out of the air and water ensuring the integrity of these resources clean for future generations. By recycling the precious metals found in electronics, the need to find new sources is reduced. 

The types of electronics that can be recycled include: computers (CPUs); monitors (CRT or LCD); laptops; printers; servers, routers and hubs; televisions; VCRs and DVD players; stereos and audio components; cameras — video and digital; iPhones, iTouches and iPads; copiers, scanners  and fax machines;  cell phones and telephones; electronic scales;
credit card machines; PDAs; alarm clocks and clock radios; handheld games; communications equipment; other miscellaneous office machines; batteries and florescent lights (extra fee for large amounts).

 Audio and video tapes, exit signs, PCBs, smoke detectors, and vacuums are not acceptable items. 

Households pay a flat rate of $15 per vehicle load of electronics, which includes the cost to recycle one computer monitor. Additional monitors and TVs up to 27 inches cost $15 apiece. 

The cost to recycle TVs over 27 inches will be quoted at the event based on weight. 

Businesses, government agencies, and schools pay 35 cents per pound and 501(c) (3) nonprofit organizations pay 25 cents per pound to recycle their electronic waste. CPUs (computers) and laptops are not counted toward the per pound fee.

Businesses and organizations must schedule a time to drop off their materials by calling Cook Inletkeeper prior to the event. 

For more information, or to schedule a drop off time (businesses and nonprofits), contact Dorothy at 235-4068, ext. 34 or dorothy@inletkeeper.org. Also, check out our website at http://inletkeeper.org/clean-water/electronics- recycling for more information about Cook Inletkeeper’s electronics recycling program.