Washington Recycles: Electronics

Washington Recycles: Electronics

Welcome to E-Cycle Washington

Washington's FREE, convenient and environmentally responsible electronics recycling program has been operational since January 1, 2009. Products accepted at E-Cycle Washington drop-off sites are: computers, monitors, laptops, tablet computers, televisions and e-readers.

Total volume of electronics collected for recycling through E-Cycle Washington:


See up to date collection data for 2012 sorted by product type and by county of origin.

See year-in-total collection data:   2009      2010      2011

2011 Annual Report
The 2011 Annual Report of the E-Cycle Washington program is now available.

Did You Know?


In 2011 Washington recycled 42.2 million pounds of electronics through the E-Cycle Washington program. Ecology estimates this volume translates to the following number of units by type of product:
  • 475,000 - TVs
  • 277,000 - Monitors
  • 165,000 - Computers
  • 917,000 - Total estimated number of units recycled in 2011
Who can use the program?
Households, small businesses, schools & school districts, small governments, special purpose districts, and charities can recycle electronic products free of charge in this program. Click here for more information.

Where can I recycle?
Visit 1800recycle.wa.gov or call 1-800-RECYCLE to find electronic product recycling services in your area.

What can I recycle for free?
  • televisions
  • computers
  • computer monitors
  • portable or laptop computers including "tablet computers"
  • e-readers (also called e-book readers)
Please note that computer peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and printers are not included in this program.

What happens to the electronics recycled through E-Cycle Washington?
The majority of the electronics are disassembled for recycling here in Washington. Some electronics go out-of-state for processing and some materials are exported for recycling at approved facilities. However, obsolete electronics are not exported to third-world countries. Metals, plastics and glass are separated and sold as commodities to be reused as raw materials in the manufacturing of new products. On average only 2% of the total volume goes to a landfill - mostly particle board from cabinet TVs. Toxic materials such as batteries, leaded glass, circuit boards and fluorescent tubes must be managed properly by approved recyclers. Ecology also requires recyclers to meet standards designed to protect worker safety and health as well as the environment.

What if my electronic equipment still works?
Many groups and businesses focus on making used electronics available for reuse. Click here for more information on donating your electronics for reuse.



WHERE DO I RECYCLE?

CLICK HERE FOR RECYCLING LOCATIONS!