SAYRE, PA. (WENY) – The Bradford County Regional Arts Council is teaming up with REACT E-Cycling Inc. from Horseheads for a special recycling event in Sayre to dispose of old electronic devices.
The event will take place at the Sayre Theater on Saturday, November 20 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Electronic products ranging from cell phones to TVs are manufactured with toxic substances, including lead, hexavalent chromium, mercury, cadmium, beryllium phthalates, brominated flame retardants and other toxic substances. According to the United Nations, 20% or less of electronics are recycled, with 80% ending up in landfills or developing countries where electronics are dismantled in an unsafe way to salvage the minerals such as copper and gold inside; this can end up making people sick and contaminating the surrounding areas.
The EPA has also issued new regulations, including a ban on obsolete electronic equipment going into landfills. Organizations like REACT are now filling that gap to help people dispose of old electronics in a safe way. Additionally, REACT says security is a priority and places equipment, like computers and copiers, in a “highly secure facility with security cameras and alarm systems”; the organization also has staff that is trained and “HIPAA compliant and have worked for Homeland Security”.
Intact TVs and monitors will have a disposal fee based on their size. Small TVs and monitors up to 32 inches are $10; medium TVs and monitors 33 to 60 inches are $20; large TVs and monitors 61 to 85 inches are $30. A complete list of accepted products can be found here.
Additionally, the Bradford County Regional Arts Council will be there to accept cash donations to support art programs for children and adults.