MELBOURNE NEWS

Sustainability

Where to recycle your e-waste mindfully

26 August 2019

Save your old mobile phone, computer or appliance from landfill by using one of our new drop-off stations, or head to our e-waste drop off day at Argyle Square in Carlton on 21 September.

E-waste is increasing three times faster than general municipal waste in Australia. By 2023–24, our nation will dispose of 223,000 tonnes of computers and televisions per year, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

In fact, anything with a plug, battery or cord that is no longer working or unwanted is considered e-waste – from computers and monitors, to small appliances and video game consoles.

When these items end up in landfill, hazardous materials like lead, mercury and arsenic can contaminate our groundwater and soil, and harm people’s health.

On the bright side – if disposed of correctly – up to 90 per cent of electronic waste can be recycled, diverting this waste from landfill.

That means we can rescue and reuse valuable non-renewable materials like copper, silver, gold, plastic and glass, many of which have limited reserves.

If we each do our bit, more and more people will dispose of e-waste correctly, leading to growth in the waste and resource recovery sector, and stimulating innovation in new recycling technologies.

Here’s where to drop-off your e-waste in the City of Melbourne.

1. Household batteries
City Library, Kathleen Syme Library and Community Centre, Melbourne City Baths, Library at the Dock and Kensington Town Hall

2. Small to medium items, including mobile phones, tablets, irons, toasters, coffee machines, hair dryers, computers, laptops, printers, monitors, remotes, phone chargers and cables, game consoles and controllers, and DVD players
Kathleen Syme Library and Community Centre, Library at The Dock and Kensington Town Hall

3. Medium and large items, including televisions, vacuum cleaners, large appliances, microwaves, electric fans and air conditioners
Dynon Road transfer station (fees may apply)

For more information, including full lists of items accepted at each drop-off station, visit Electronic waste.

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