eCycling



Diverting computers, electronics, communications equipment and other related wastes in 2007 has kept nearly 50 tonnes of waste from the landfill, and the program – since its inception in 2004 – has now diverted over 125 tonnes of electronic waste into established electronic recycling programs.

Electronics often contain useful materials such as precious metals, glass, and plastics, which should be recovered rather than buried in a landfill. On the flip side, the heavy metals and other toxic materials found in many electronics can be harmful to the environment if the products are not properly managed. Examples of potentially harmful materials are mercury, lead, arsenic and even PCBs (in some TVs and computers made prior to the early 1980s). To ensure electronics are managed in an environmentally safe manner, Waste Management has opened up numerous facilities as official eCycle collection sites.

Recycling

During the program’s three years, more than 2,500 people have come to the landfill, and more than 1,650 vehicles have dropped off old electronic equipment. That has amounted to more than 125 tonnes – or nearly seven tractor trailer loads – being safely recycled rather than being buried. Waste Management is proud of the community for helping undertake this waste diversion effort. The goal is to expand the program and make it easier for more citizens to participate.

Key to respecting the environment is forming the habit of holding off on throwing out old keyboards, computers, kids’ electronic toys, PDAs and other obsolete equipment until an eCycling drive.

Waste Management’s commitment to reducing and recycling includes other waste diversion programs such as its ongoing support for recycling programs, a “Last Chance Harvest” where waste is diverted and used to support on-site construction needs, and community outreach efforts to improve recycling and diversion throughout the region.

Want to dispose of your electronic waste?

Phase #1 materials are currently being accepted at the WM Ottawa Recycling Center

  • Televisions (under 32 inches)
  • Computer monitors, desktops & notebook computers
  • Computer printers & fax machines
  • Computer peripherals such as keyboards & mice

Phase #2 materials will be accepted at the recycling center, effective April 1, 2010 (as per the WEEE program plan implemented by the Minister of Environment)

  • Computer peripherals will include modems
  • Printing devices will include copiers, scanners, typewriters
    • Recycling
  • Telephones (physical and accessories)
  • Cellular phones
  • PDA’s and pagers
  • Audio and video players
  • Cameras
  • Equalizers, (pre)amplifiers
  • Radios
  • Receivers
  • Speakers
  • Tuner
  • Turntable
  • Video players/projectors
  • Video recorder
  • Personal hand held computers

Consumers who want to find nearby collection locations for their electronic waste can go to an interactive website, www.dowhatyoucan.ca, select “electronics” and search for the nearest collection site by municipality, postal code or material type.