Electronic waste includes any appliance that processes and displays information - such as computers, calculators, televisions, stereos, VCRs and DVD players. These old electronics add tons of toxic compounds to our nation's landfills, compromising air and water quality. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, over 4 million tons of e-waste was thrown out in 1999 - and the amount of e-waste continues to grow, as new technology replaces our electronic appliances at an ever-faster rate. And every time we throw out electronic equipment, we throw out valuable resources like precious metals, glass, and plastics that should be reused or recycled.

In September 2004, Leelanau County was awarded a grant from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality in order to begin an electronics recycling program. The MDEQ grant helped fund 5 collections in Suttons Bay and Maple City. The grant ended in September 2006; over 33 tons of electronics were collected from about 500 households over the two-year grant period. These materials were shipped to Grand Rapids, where they were rebuilt and reused if possible, or dismantled for recycling if not appropriate for reuse. None of the materials were landfilled.

Computers and computer peripherals (keyboards, printers, etc.) are now accepted for recycling by Goodwill in Traverse City.  There is no charge.

If you have any questions, please contact the Planning Department at 256-9812 or toll free 866-256-9711, Ext. 812.