Your Guide to E-Waste Recycling in New Jersey

UPCYCLE USA is redefining what electronic waste collection and disposal can be. Learn more about our E-Waste recycling and removal services in New Jersey.

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The Importance of Responsible E-Waste Recycling 

As office technology becomes more advanced and modern, older computers are becoming obsolete and ending up in dumpsters across New Jersey. Just one discarded computer in a landfill can lead to dangerous chemicals leaching into our groundwater and soil. But it doesn’t have to be this way! 

With so many options for office electronics and devices, there is now a growing concern among IT departments: What do we do with all the old computers and electronic waste? Discarding old office computers in an irresponsible manner can have severe environmental consequences because electronics contain hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, and cadmium. Responsible computer disposal is not only crucial for protecting the beautiful Garden State, but it also protects businesses from local violations and data breaches.  

UPCYCLE USA’s comprehensive guide will provide New Jerseyans with step-by-step instructions on how to responsibly recycle old office electronics and computers. 

Don’t Be Trashy! Follow New Jersey’s E-Waste Management Laws

Like most states, New Jersey has specific and rigid laws governing the disposal and recycling of electronic waste. The Electronic Waste Management Act, signed into law in 2007, requires homeowners, businesses, and institutions to responsibly collect, transport, and recycle covered electronic devices (CEDs). Items required for recycling include computers, tablets, televisions, printers, fax machines, and monitors.

Under New Jersey law, it is illegal to dispose of CEDs in dumpsters, landfills, or incinerators. Violating these regulations can result in fines for individuals and business owners. Fines and penalties can vary depending on the severity of the violation. Fines for improper electronic waste disposal can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Severe cases of illegal dumping may result in higher fines and even criminal charges.

To comply with the law and contribute to a safer New Jersey, it’s essential to recycle your old or broken electronics through an authorized and certified E-Waste recycling service.

Your Guide to E-Waste Recycling in New Jersey

As technology continues to advance and more devices are updated, the demand for responsible E-Waste recycling will only grow. Do your part and help reduce the environmental impact of electronic waste in New Jersey by following these six steps. 

Your efforts will help create a more sustainable future for New Jersey and beyond.

Step 1: Prepare Your Devices & Data 

Back Up Your Data

Before you recycle any of your electronics, it’s crucial to back up any important data you may have on your devices. Transfer your files to an external hard drive, a cloud-based storage service, or another computer.

Step 2: Find a Certified E-Waste Recycling Service

Search for Local E-Waste Recycling Services

You don’t have to look hard to find a certified E-Waste recycling service in New Jersey.  Start your search by visiting your local government’s website or call (973) 575-5800 to speak with a Recycling Specialist. Municipalities in your area may have designated drop-off locations for electronic waste but some services will come to you.

Check for Certifications & Compliance

Ensure that your chosen E-Waste recycling provider is certified by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) or another relevant authority. Certified centers adhere to environmentally responsible practices and comply with local laws.

Click here to view New Jersey’s certified drop-off sites or email info@upcyclellc.com to find your most convenient E-Waste recycling option.     

E-Waste Pickup Services

Hiring an experienced E-Waste pickup service team can save you time and effort because they will help organize your electronic inventory and dispose of everything correctly. Before removal, the driver or pickup team should create an inventory list and document every electronic device so you are aware of what is being collected.

If you have 25 or more electronics you can opt for UPCYCLE USA’s complimentary E-Waste pickup service. Schedule your FREE pickup. 

Step 3: Donate Your Gently Used Electronics 

Pay It Forward 

If your old computers, tablets, and monitors are still in good working condition, consider donating them and helping those in need. Nonprofits and underserved schools in New Jersey are always in need of gently used device donations.

Learn how to pay it forward with UPCYCLE USA’s Electronic Recycling Program which provides children with the tools they need to learn valuable technological and job skills.

Tax Benefits of Donating Computers

Donating your computers may have tax benefits. Keep records of your donation, including the fair market value of the computer, and consult with a tax professional to understand the potential deductions or credits you may be eligible for.

Step 4: Schedule Your Pickup or Drop-off

Drop-off Procedures

If you choose to drop off your old computer at a recycling center, follow these steps:

• Contact the recycling center to confirm their hours of operation and any specific dropoff requirements.
• Secure your electronics in a box or container to prevent damage during transportation.
• Follow the center’s instructions for drop-off and complete any paperwork requirements.

Pickup Procedures 

If you opt for UPCYCLE USA’s complimentary pickup service, follow these steps:

• Speak with a Recycling Specialist and schedule pickup.
• Ensure that you or someone else you trust is present at the scheduled pickup location.
• On pickup day, simply hand over your electronics to the UPCYCLE USA team and let them handle the rest. You point and we will take it away! 

Recycling Fees & Costs

While UPCYCLE USA offers free E-Waste recycling pickup, other vendors may charge a fee for certain items or services. When researching your E-Waste recycling provider, always inquire about any potential fees for additional services.

Ask About Data Destruction & Hard Drive Wiping

Backing up your data and files will help protect your sensitive or proprietary information but even after deleting files, data can still be recovered from the hard drive. To ensure total data privacy, consider using a data destruction service that will make it extremely difficult to recover any information on discarded hard drives.

Step 5: Don’t Forget About Your Electronic Accessories

In addition to your devices, you may have additional electronic accessories such as keyboards, mice, and cables that need to be responsibly disposed of or recycled. If they are still in good condition, consider donating these peripherals to schools, charities, or individuals in need.

UPCYCLE USA accepts: 

• Keyboards
• Mice
• Chargers
• External Hard Drives
• Speakers
• ANYTHING WITH A PLUG!

Step 6: Ask for Documentation 

Depending on which recycling program you have chosen, you may receive different types of documentation. 
With UPCYCLE USA, every customer will receive a Bill of Lading, Certificate of Destruction, and Certificate of Recycling plus a unique job ID number. If you or your organization requires specific types of documentation, please contact a Recycling Specialist and we will help you get the correct documentation.

Get Started with E-Waste Recycling

Responsibly recycling old computers in New Jersey is not only a legal requirement but also a crucial step in protecting our environment and conserving valuable resources. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can contribute to a greener future while ensuring that your data remains secure.

Live in New Jersey? Want to get started with E-Waste Recycling? 

Contact one of our knowledgeable team members today! Speak to a Recycling Specialist