Household survey shows many residents are storing unwanted electronics

In early 2016, the Department of Natural Resources conducted a statewide household recycling survey that included several questions on electronics recycling.

Key takeaways from the 2016 survey include:

• There is still a lot of material to recycle. Based on the survey, the DNR estimates there are more than 8 million TVs, computers and cell phones in state households that are no longer being used. A large share of residents who stopped using an electronic device in the previous year put it into storage instead of recycling, selling or donating it.
• DNR surveys have shown increasing recycling of electronics over time, but in 2016, the percentage of respondents who had put TVs and computers in the trash also increased. This is something to watch, and indicates there is room for collectors, recyclers and manufacturers to more strongly promote computer recycling, which is often free.
• Residents’ level of concern over data security indicates this is an area on which the DNR and electronics collectors and recyclers should focus more attention.
• The survey showed increased awareness of E-Cycle Wisconsin and where to recycle electronics. Still, nearly one-third of residents didn’t know where to recycle electronics, and this was the top reason cited for being unable to e-cycle.

Complete 2016 survey results

While compiling these detailed results, the DNR discovered errors in survey data included in the E-Cycle Wisconsin 2016 report. An updated version, with revisions to the “Disposal ban awareness and compliance” section, is also available on our website.

E-Cycle Wisconsin 2016 report

Register for May 31 collection site webinar

The DNR will hold a free workshop on electronics collection site best management practices May 31. This workshop will be focused on site-level requirements and best management practices for drop-off sites and events that collect electronics and universal waste.

If you collect or recycle electronics, oversee an electronics collection program, or represent a municipality contracting for e-cycling services, we encourage you to attend. The information will also be useful to anyone wanting to understand the rules and best management practices for collecting electronics and universal waste (such as lamps and batteries). The workshop will provide an update on the E-Cycle Wisconsin program and information to help you find reputable recyclers to manage your electronics responsibly.

We have reached capacity for our meeting room, but have a webinar option via Skype. If you select this option on the registration form, you will receive an invitation to the Skype meeting with a link and call-in number. The meeting will not be recorded.

Date and time: Wednesday, May 31, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Contact: Sarah Murray, 608-264-6001 View agenda  Register for webinar

Updated electronics collection site list

There have been several updates to our list of registered electronics collection sites, including the addition of  upcoming one-day collection events throughout the state.

Full list of registered collection sites.

Sarah Murray, E-Cycle Wisconsin

Waste and Materials Management Program, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

sarah.murray@wisconsin.gov