Electronics Recycling

Session Law 2010-67 established an electronics recycling program for the State of North Carolina with shared responsibility between manufacturers, retailers, local and state government, and consumers. The law included a ban on the disposal of computer equipment and televisions effective July 1, 2011.

This site is designed to help you learn more about the new law and how you can recycle your electronics.

FAQs
Why do electronics need to be recycled?
TVs and computers, in addition to many other electronics, contain toxic materials. The recycling process prevents the toxic materials from getting into our landfills and captures nontoxic materials such as glass, plastic and metal for recycling or reuse.

What kinds of toxic materials are in electronic products?
Materials such as phosphorus, cadmium, lead, mercury and arsenic can be found in the components used to build electronic devices. Since these materials can be harmful to human and environmental health, it is important that they be disposed of properly through a responsible recycling program.

What about the information on my computer? Should I delete it first?
This is up to you. Your hard drive WILL NOT be reused or refurbished. During the recycling process, the hard drive will be shredded and then sold to a smelter and melted down.

Where can I recycle my electronics?
Wake County has several sites where residents can drop off their electronics:

North Wake Multi-Material Recycling Facility: 9029 Deponie Drive, Raleigh, NC 27614
South Wake Multi-Material Recycling Facility: 6130 Old Smithfield Road, Apex, NC 27502
Both facilities are open Monday–Saturday from 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

Residents can also drop off their electronics at Convenience Centers #1, #4, and #11.

View information about programs offered by your municipality.

Many electronics maufacturers offer take-back programs. Visit the manufacturer's website for the most up-to-date information regarding their specific programs.

What kind of electronics does the Wake County program accept?
Wake County’s e-recycling program includes nearly any electronic device with a cord, including answering machines, blenders, phones, radios, TVs, computers and speakers. For a complete list, visit: http://www.wakegov.com/recycling/business/multimaterialdropoff

Will Wake County collect electronics from my home?
Unfortunately, Wake County is unable to make pick-ups; however, if you can get someone to help you place your electronic device(s) in your car, one of our attendants can able help you remove the item from your car at our facility.

Cary, Fuquay-Varina, Garner, Morrisville, Raleigh, Wake Forest and Wendell offer electronics collection either as part of their curbside programs or as a special program. Contact each municipality directly for more information regarding the items accepted and the collection schedule.

Do I have to pay to recycle my electronics?
Wake County residents are not required to pay any fees when they drop off electronic items to be recycled at the multi-material recycling facilities.

Can I take items that other residents have dropped off for recycling?
No, we do not operate a SWAP shop. If you are looking for a used appliance, we encourage you to seek out swap shops in your area.

Will you donate my electronics if they still work?
No. All devices that are dropped off by residents are recycled. If your device still works and you would like it to be reused, we encourage you to seek out charitable organizations in your area such as The Arc of Wake County, The Healing Place or the Salvation Army.

Additional Questions? Call 919-856-2400.