How to safely dispose of old cellphones, laptops, batteries and more
Whether you got a new cell phone or changed the batteries in your keyboard, it is important to dispose of your old electronics properly and safely.
Electronics
If you’re looking to dispose of e-waste (electronic waste), such as old cellphones, laptops, cables, televisions, headphones and video game consoles, you can bring them to a York Region waste depot for safe disposal. Never place electronics curbside for collection.
Batteries
Batteries are considered household hazardous waste and should never be disposed of in the garbage. When improperly disposed of, batteries can overheat and start fires in garbage bins or waste collection trucks. Always drop off batteries at a York Region waste depot. Batteries are also collected at Bathurst Clark, Civic Centre and Pierre Berton Resource Libraries for safe disposal. The City does not collect batteries curbside.
Waste less e-waste today!
While upgrading your devices is fun, it’s important to remember our shared responsibility to the planet to cut down on waste. Fortunately, many parts that make up your electronics, like glass, gold, silver and copper, can be reused and made into another product!
Here are easy ways you can reduce, reuse and recycle your old electronics:
Reduce e-waste by extending the life of your electronics. Buy a case, keep your device clean and avoid overcharging the battery.
Donate electronics that are gently used or old, but still in good working condition, to friends or family.
Take e-waste to a retail recycling location. Visit recyclemyelectronics.ca to search for a location near you.
For more information on the City’s commitment to York Region’s SM4RT Living Plan (Waste Management Master Plan) or disposal of household hazardous waste, visit vaughan.ca/waste.
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