Safe disposal of e-waste

Everyone has things around the house they should get rid of: solvents, paints, and, increasingly, electronics of many kinds. Electronic equipment, especially computer monitors, can contain significant amounts of hazardous materials. While charities may accept smaller items that are functional, many no longer accept appliances and computer/electronics-related items. How can you safely dispose of these things?

The Los Angeles Bureau of Sanitation has set up a program to help. They call it: E-Waste (Electronic Waste) and it includes items such as computers, monitors, printers, network equipment, cables, telephones, televisions, microwaves, video games, cell phones, radios, stereos, VCRs, and electronic toys.

It works in conjunction with their hazardours materials collection program called S.A.F.E. (Solvents/Automotive/Flammables/Electronics) Recycling and Disposal. There are centers established around the city where you can drop off hazardous waste. Residents are limited to a total of six pieces per visit to a SAFE Center. Of the six pieces, no more than two pieces can be CRT-related. Small items (mice, cables, modems, cell phones, etc.) can be packed in a carton box and that carton will be considered one item.

Visit the Bureau of Sanitation web site for further information and directions.