Last week we introduced our TerraCycle program that is happening for the rest of the year. But that is a limited recycling program, and there are so many other items we use that need special recycling. So we will have a series for the whole month based on what you should do with some of those items when the time comes. 

Today we are focusing on electronics recycling, as in today’s world electronics are widely used, but very harmful if not disposed of in the correct manner. That’s because electronics can contain lead, mercury and various other chemicals and hazardous materials that can end up in a landfill, harming the environment and public health. We want to make sure that doesn’t happen, so we’ve compiled a list of places that recycle electronics here in the KC metro. 

• RecycleSpot has a lot of information about recycling in the greater KC metro area, but here is their info on electronics recycling.
• There is also Midwest Recycling Center, they accept a wide variety of electronics for free, as well as some larger appliances that require a fee to recycle. Check out the list of everything you can take to recycle here. 
• If you live in Olathe, the City of Olathe offers free electronics recycling to residents, and you can find out more about that here. 
• If you have an old computer that you want to put to good use, check out Connecting for Good. They refurbish computers to provide to low-income families and non-profits! 
• Bridging the Gap has a wide variety of recycling services, but their electronics recycling is on a smaller scale, they accept small electronics and ink and toner cartridges. 
• If none of these locations work for you, you can take electronics to your local Best Buy or Staples and pay to have your things recycled, and don’t forget Apple has its own recycling program that you can send your old apple products back to get store credit. 

Of course, how to recycle your electronics is only one step, remember to try to buy used or refurbished, keep your electronics as long as possible instead of falling prey to the newest model design, and maybe try sharing electronics in order to cut down on how many you need at any one time!