Electronics Recycling & Other Special Recyclables

How to Recycle Other Items

In addition to regular, everyday recyclable materials, Penn Waste also offers these tips on electronics recycling, US flag disposal and other specialty recyclables.


Proper Flag Disposal

When the United States flag becomes torn, tattered, faded, or unfit for display, it is suggested that it be properly retired. The best way to go about doing this is by contacting your local VFW or American Legion and asking if they retire old flags.

VFW organizations and American Legions perform mass flag retirement ceremonies which are a preferred alternative to throwing your old flag in the garbage.

To find a local VFW near you, please visit The Veterans of Foreign Wars website.

To find a local American Legion near you, please visit The American Legion website.


Electronics Recycling

special-recyclables

Did you know that the average American household has at least 24 electronic products? Each year, between 300 million and 400 million of those electronic items become obsolete, and less than 20% of that e-waste is recycled.

In particular, cathode ray tubes in older televisions and computers typically contain 4-7 pounds of lead in each unit, making them particularly hazardous for waste collection.

The Covered Devices Recycling Act prohibits residents and businesses from placing their covered devices at the curb or in their trash. Covered devices include: desktop computers, laptops, monitors, computer peripherals (keyboard, mouse, printer and speakers), televisions and e-readers that browse the Internet.

Recycling one million desktop computers alone prevents the release of greenhouse gases equivalent to the annual emissions of 16,000 passenger cars. We all need to do our part to protect our environment.


How to Recycle Electronics

As of January 24, 2013, by law Penn Waste is no longer allowed to collect your covered devices.

Below is a list of resources you may contact to legally dispose of your covered devices and participate in electronics recycling:

York PA and Surrounding Areas
The York County Solid Waste Authority
(717) 845-1066
www.ycswa.com
Lancaster PA and Surrounding Areas
Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority
(717) 397-9968
www.lcswma.org
Harrisburg, Hershey & Dauphin County
Dauphin County Recycling Center
(717) 982-6772
www.dauphincounty.org
Cumberland, Perry, and Adams Counties:
Please contact Pennsylvania’s Recycling Hotline at: (800) 346-4242