An official website of the United States government.

This is not the current EPA website. To navigate to the current EPA website, please go to www.epa.gov. This website is historical material reflecting the EPA website as it existed on January 19, 2021. This website is no longer updated and links to external websites and some internal pages may not work. More information »

Electronic Waste and Demolition

televisions stacked for recycling
Televisions and computer monitors await recycling.

You may find electronic items in residential properties awaiting demolition.

Electronics may contain hazardous substances
  • cellular phones
  • computers
  • computer equipment
  • stereo equipment
  • televisions
  • beryllium
  • brominated flame retardants
  • cadmium
  • chromium
  • lead
  • mercury
  • nickel
  • zinc

Older televisions and computer monitors with cathode ray tubes contain an average of four pounds of lead and may require special handling.

  • Electronics Donation and Recycling
  • Where can I donate or recycle my old computer and other electronic products? - Many organizations accept electronics for reuse.
  • Some states have specific laws and policies governing the recycling of electronics.
  • Check with your local solid waste management district office to identify management options. Your local household hazardous waste facility may accept residential electronics.
  • Electronics manufacturers and retailers may have collection programs in your area.
  • You can use the Disaster Debris Recovery Database to locate recyclers and other waste management facilities in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio or Wisconsin.
  • Certified Electronics Recyclers - EPA encourages debris managers to choose certified recyclers. These recyclers have demonstrated to an accredited, independent third-party auditor that they meet specific standards to safely recycle and manage electronics. Currently, two accredited certification standards exist:
    • the Responsible Recycling Practices (R2)
    • and the e-Stewards® standards.