Computers, monitors and other electronic equipment should not be thrown in the garbage. Their components often contain toxic materials such as lead, PCBs, mercury and cadmium. Businesses must manage waste electronics in accordance with state and federal law. Fortunately, there are many local recycling and donation options.

Computers, Electronics and Office Equipment Items Include

• calculators
• camcorders
• computers systems (including monitors, scanners, printers, keyboards, mouses, CPUs, networking devices, speakers, add-ons)
• CRTs (picture tubes)
• electronic games
• fax machines
• photo copiers
• radios
• stereos
• tape players
• telephones (including cell phones)
• typewriters
• TVs/remote controls
• VCRs/ remote controls

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Resources & Links

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Disposal Information

Businesses can recycle spent fluorescent lamps and old electronics for a fee at The Recycling Zone. The Recycling Zone accepts bulbs from businesses on the second Tuesday of every month from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. If you are planning to deliver 1,000 lamps or more, call first. Find more information on disposal costs, payment information and preparation requirements on Dakota County’s website  and search "business hazardous waste" or call The Recycling Zone at 651-905-4520.

Some electronics manufacturers offer take-back programs for products at the end of their useful life. Drop-off or mail-back options may be available, usually for a fee, and some manufacturer programs will take any brand. See these web sites for details:

• Apple
• Dell
• Gateway
• Hewlett Packard
• IBM
• Lexmark
• MPC
• Sony

For equipment in good functioning condition, consider making a donation to a non-profit organization such as the Minnesota Computers for Schools Program or participating in the Minnesota Materials Exchange Program. Be aware that many non-profit organizations have tight specifications for accepting electronic equipment donations. Describe the items you want to donate and verify what the receiving party will do with the equipment. Before recycling or donating computers, be sure to remove all stored confidential data properly and securely.

For more information on managing computer and electronic waste, see How to Manage Electronic Equipment, or contact your county environmental office or the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) at 651-296-6300.

The Recycling and Disposal Sites section lists companies and organizations that accept (usually for a fee) a variety of electronic equipment for recycling, resale and reuse. Not all accept the same materials, and some businesses have limited hours. Call first.