Your Guide to Recycling Old Electronics in New Jersey

Proper waste disposal of electronics in New Jersey is more than a legal duty—it’s a vital part of waste reduction and protecting our environment. With strict state regulations and accessible programs, waste and recycling practices are becoming easier for both residents and businesses. Here’s your complete guide to recycling outdated devices at a recycling center or waste center near you.

Why Electronic Recycling Supports Waste Reduction in New Jersey

Electronic waste, or e-waste, contains hazardous materials like lead and mercury. When not properly managed, this waste pollutes air, soil, and water. The New Jersey Electronic Waste Management Act aims to enforce better waste recycling to protect health and support a more sustainable, circular economy. By using recycling stations and certified programs, residents can keep recycled materials in use and out of landfills.

What Electronics Can Be Recycled

In New Jersey, waste centers and recycling stations accept:

• Computers and laptops

• Monitors and displays

• Televisions (especially CRTs—special handling required)

• Printers and fax machines

• Computer accessories (keyboards, mice)

• Tablets, e-readers

• Cell phones, game consoles, speakers, and networking devices

• Rechargeable batteries, commonly accepted at stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot

Looking to recycle more household items? While electronics are the focus here, don’t forget to recycle plastic bags, recycle glass, or use cardboard recycling drop-off points available at most municipal centers.

Where to Recycle Electronics Near Me in New Jersey

1. Local Recycling Centers: Municipal recycling centers near you often host e-waste events or maintain drop-off areas. Search for "recycling near me" or better yet, come to ReGenesis located at Voorhees.

2. Manufacturer Take-Back Programs: Brands like Apple, HP, and Dell offer recycling and waste disposal programs. Some provide mail-in services for free.

3. Retail Locations: Stores like Best Buy and Staples accept certain electronics. For recycle trash cans or blue recycle bins, try Home Depot or Lowe’s.

These providers ensure environmentally safe handling and often offer pickup for businesses or bulk e-waste.

Step-by-Step: How to Recycle Electronics Properly

1. Create an Inventory of devices with screens, batteries, or storage.

2. Wipe Personal Data using factory resets or certified destruction software.

3. Check for Reuse potential—consider donation if the device still works.

4. Select a Disposal Method:

   • For fewer than 5 devices, visit a recycling station near you.

   • For bulk, contact a certified waste recycling center.

Use certified recyclers to ensure compliance and protect your data.

For Businesses: Follow Waste and Recycling Compliance Rules

Under NJDEP Universal Waste Rules, businesses must document their waste recycling efforts. Certified partners can help with:

• Inventory reporting and asset tagging

• Hard drive shredding and data sanitization

• Certificates of destruction for audits

Donate Instead of Dispose

Working electronics can be donated to:

• Goodwill of NJ

• The Salvation Army

• Local schools and nonprofits

• National Cristina Foundation

Confirm accepted items before drop-off. This supports recycled material reuse and extends product life.

Know the Laws: Don’t Risk Fines

New Jersey law states:

• Manufacturers must fund recycling

• Residents may not throw out "covered devices" like TVs

• Retailers must inform customers about waste and recycling options

Violations result in fines and environmental damage.

Benefits of Responsible E-Waste Recycling

• Prevents soil and water contamination

• Recovers metals like gold and copper

• Reduces illegal dumping/export

• Grows green jobs in waste reduction and tech refurbishment

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🌿 About ReGenesis Materials

As a Class A recycling facility based in Voorhees, NJ, ReGenesis Materials processes high-volume recyclables like cardboard, aluminum, paper, plastic, and glass. We partner with municipalities, haulers, and businesses to ensure material recovery is clean, compliant, and sustainable.

Interested in a recycling partnership or educational outreach? Contact us today to schedule a site tour or set up a program for your building, office park, or community.