Electronic Waste

Used Electronics
There are several options for dealing with used electronics. If the items are still in good working order, consider selling, trading, or donating them to others who could get more use out of them. Check out the links on the Waste Reduction page for some ideas on what to do with working electronic items.

As of January 1, 2009, the following electronic items are accepted for recycling free of charge through E-cycle Washington:
  • Computers
  • E-Readers
  • Laptop computers
  • Monitors
  • Television sets
Broken TV
Fees
Please note that fees may still apply for other electronic items and peripherals, such as computer mice and keyboards. Fees may also apply for curbside pick-up, as this is a premium service offered by haulers. To find out more about which locations and recycling services in your area accept electronics for recycling, visit the E-Cycle Washington website or call 800-Recycle.

Hazards of Discarding Electronic Items
Many broken or obsolete items can not just be thrown into the trash because most electronic devices contain materials, such as heavy metals, that are dangerous to human health and the environment. When items containing these toxins end up in landfills the poisons can leak out and contaminate the surrounding area, eventually making their way into our air, food, or water. Furthermore, even broken electronics usually have parts that can be recycled or reused, so recycling saves energy and natural resources.
Sanitary Service Company
Sanitary Service Company provides curbside pick-up for Bellingham residents and specially arranged pick-up for all county residents. Call ahead of time for details and pricing: 360-734-3490. Items can also be dropped off at the transfer station at 1001 Roeder Avenue.

Safe & Easy Recycling
Safe and Easy Recycling will accept most electronic items for free or for a nominal disposal fee. They are located at:
3863 Hannegan Road
Suite 110
Bellingham, WA 98225
Broken Cell Phone
Call for their Lynden location. Visit their website, or call 360-715-EASY (3279).

Samsung Recycling Direct
Samsung Recycling Direct will accept all Samsung-branded consumer electronics sold in the United States ranging from televisions, DVD and VHS players, audio equipment and home theater systems, to mobile phones, cameras, camcorders, computer monitors, printers, and peripherals. This includes non-Samsung-branded consumer electronics in the same categories, for a nominal fee. In addition, a growing number of fixed drop-off locations will be made available for Samsung-branded home appliances. Visit their website to find the nearest location.

E-Cycle Washington
E-Cycle Washington is a new program that provides responsible recycling of computers, monitors, TVs, and E-Readers in our state. As of January 2009, electronics manufacturers in Washington will take responsibility for recycling these products.

Recycling is provided free of charge to households, small businesses, school districts, small governments and charities at authorized collection sites. For more information, visit their website.

Local businesses that are currently participating in the E-Cycle Washington program include:
  • Goodwill Bellingham Store, 1115 East Sunset Drive, 360-752-2080
  • Safe and Easy Recycling, 3863 Hannegan, Suite 110, 360-715-3279
  • Salvation Army Bellingham, 1515 Birchwood, 360-733-1350
  • Recycling & Disposal Services, 4916 LaBounty Drive 360-384-8011
  • Value Village, 150 East Bellis Fair Parkway, 360-647-4292