Recycle Electronics

Electronics contain valuable materials that can be recovered and reused, but many also contain hazardous components that should never be thrown in the trash. Marin County offers convenient recycling options for computers, TVs, phones, printers, and more.

Why Recycle Electronics?

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Protect People & the Environment

Many electronic devices contain lead, mercury, and other materials that require proper disposal to protect people and the environment.

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Recover Valuable Resources.

Electronics contain valuable metals, plastics, and glass that can be recovered and used to manufacture new products.

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Recycle Responsibly

In California, many electronic devices cannot legally be placed in the trash. Recycling ensures they’re handled safely and responsibly. 

What Can Be Recycled?

Computers & Office Electronics

A printer and laptop: example of electronics HHW
  • Desktop computers
  • Laptops
  • Computer monitors
  • Printers
  • Fax machines
  • Computer peripherals
  • Cables, wires & chargers

TVs & Audio/Video Equipment

A TV and speaker: example of electronics HHW
  • CRT televisions
  • LCD televisions
  • DVD players
  • Video cassette recorders (VCRs)
  • Stereo equipment
  • iPods

Phones & Mobile Devices

  • Cell phones
  • Wireless telephones
  • Answering machines
  • Tablets

Small Household Electronics

A microwave and calculator: example of electronics HHW
  • Microwave
  • Calculator
  • Portable jump starters

Before You Recycle Electronics

1

Back Up Your Data

Save any files you want to keep.

2

Remove Personal Information

Factory reset devices or wipe hard drives before recycling.

3

Remove Batteries When Needed

Some devices may require batteries to be removed and recycled separately. Batteries are also HHW and require special disposal. 

Electric or Electronic?

Knowing the difference helps ensure your items end up at the right recycling facility.

Electronic

Electronic items contain electronic circuits or screens and are accepted at Marin’s Household Hazardous Waste Facilities.

Examples include:

  • Computers
  • LCD TVs
  • Cell phones
  • Microwave ovens
  • Tablets

Electronic items are accepted at the Household Hazardous Waste Facility.

Electric

Electric items use electricity but do not contain the same electronic components. 

Examples include:

  • Toasters
  • Blenders
  • Hair dryers

Electric items are not accepted at the HHW facility but may be dropped off for recycling (for a fee) at the Marin Resource Recovery Center.

Electronics Recycling Locations

Choose the drop-off option that’s right for you. Our year-round facilities and seasonal collection events make it easy to dispose of household hazardous waste safely.

Household Hazardous Waste Facilities

San Rafael HHW Facility

For: Marin residents (except Novato)

Novato HHW Facility

For: Novato residents only

Electronics Recycling Locations

Best Buy

Accepts many consumer electronics. Please check accepted materials before visiting.

Renew Computers

Accepts many consumer electronics. Please check accepted materials before visiting.

IMPORTANT DISPOSAL NOTICE


Do not place electronics in your curbside recycling, trash, or organics cart.

Electronic devices should never be placed in trash, recycling, or organics carts. Many electronic devices cannot legally be disposed of in California landfills. Recycle electronics through an approved electronics recycling or Household Hazardous Waste collection program.