Electronic waste — commonly known as e-waste — is not permitted in curbside trash or recycling bins, according to local waste management guidelines. E-waste includes items such as old cell phones, computers, stereo equipment, remote controls, and any device that contains a battery or power cord.
Residents are reminded that batteries and loose wires pose a significant fire hazard and must always be removed from devices and handled separately. Batteries, wires, and electronic devices should never be placed in curbside trash or recycling bins.
Electronics often contain toxic materials, including lead, mercury, cadmium, and brominated flame retardants. When disposed of in regular trash and sent to landfills, these substances can leach into soil and groundwater, creating serious risks to plants, wildlife, and human health.
Unlike materials accepted in curbside recycling — such as glass, aluminum, cardboard, and certain plastics — electronics require a specialized recycling process. Facilities use additional solvents and chemical treatments to extract rare and heavy metals and to separate reusable components. Because of this distinct process, e-waste must be collected separately.
Residents are encouraged to explore the many available options for reusing or recycling unwanted electronics. Officials also advise wiping all personal data from devices before donating or recycling them.
Helpful Resources
Donate old smart phones, computers and tablets to:
Recycle electronics at:
- Staples, Best Buy, or Pembroke’s Wilson E. Whittaker Recycling Center.
- Good Will and the Salvation Army will accept certain electronics.
For more information about hazardous waste management in Pembroke visit:
