Electronic recycling set to start in NY

The Department of Sanitation is asking New Yorkers to go green by recycling old electronics. As of Jan. 1, the Department of Sanitation says it will no longer be picking up electronic waste at the

News 12 Staff

Dec 31, 2014, 8:11 AM

Updated 3,623 days ago

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The Department of Sanitation is asking New Yorkers to go green by recycling old electronics.
As of Jan. 1, the Department of Sanitation says it will no longer be picking up electronic waste at the curb with garbage.
Residents who want to throw out old computers, keyboards, televisions or remotes have to recycle it by New York State law.
There are a few different ways to recycle electronics. Residents can bring their items to participating stores like Staples or Best Buy. Manufacturers will also send out boxes for residents to mail electronics back to them. 
Residents can also participate in the e-cycle program through the DOS. The DOS brings bins to participating buildings and when the bin is full, the superintendent can contact the DOS to take the bin away.
According to the department, electronic waste is the largest growing portion of the household hazardous waste stream. DOS Commissioner Katherine Garcia says, "There are lots of metals in it that are very toxic to the environment such as cadmium, mercury and lead. We really want to make sure that people can properly recycle those."
There is a three-month leeway period for the new program. But, after that, violators can face fines of up to $100 for illegally dumping electronic waste in front of their property.
Sanitation enforcement officers will be following up to make sure people comply with the new program.