For the third year, Homer residents will have a chance to properly dispose of obsolete electronic equipment at the Electronics Recycling Event Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Spenard Builders Supply.
E-waste, as it is called, is the fastest growing part of the waste stream, according to event organizer Nina Faust. "Just like batteries, electronics seem safe to use, but if we throw them out, they can leak toxic chemicals like lead, mercury and cadmium into our water and air. One computer monitor can contain 4-8 pounds of lead, which, if released, can hurt an entire community," she said in a release.
The following items will be collected: computers and components, televisions, scanners, printers, copy and fax machines, radios, stereos, VCR and DVD players, telephones, cell phones, CDs, DVDs, floppy disks, credit card machines, PDA handheld devices, small kitchen appliances, video-digital cameras, household batteries, 35 mm cameras and fluorescent lamps.
All marine electronics are accepted. Items not accepted include audio and video tapes, smoke detectors, and vacuums.
These items will be shipped to Total Reclaim Inc. in Anchorage, which recycles or reuses electronic components at its Seattle facility in a socially and environmentally responsible way.
It costs a household $15 to drop off a carload of electronics, including one computer monitor. Additional monitors are $10. TVs cost extra depending on size. Some additional fees may apply. Only cash or checks will be accepted, and no scavenging will be permitted.
Participating households also are eligible to register for prizes donated by some of the event sponsors, including two duffle bags worth $110 from Nomar, vouchers for a tire changeover from Alyeska Tire and Scruggs Auto, five $10 gift certificates from Fresh Sourdough Express, a $25 gift certificate from Kachemak Gear Shed, and two cookbooks and two tote bags from Alaska Marine Conservation Council.
Also, the first 50 households will be eligible for a free compact fluorescent bulb, compliments of Homer Electric Association.
Businesses and government agencies may recycle their used equipment for 35 cents per pound. Nonprofit organizations will pay the business rate, but with proof of 501 (c)3 status they will be able to submit a rebate form to Green Star that will reimburse them for 25 cents per pound, thanks to funding from the Rasmuson Foundation.
Businesses, government agencies and nonprofit organizations must call 235-6262 to schedule an appointment prior to dropping off their equipment.
Owners should wipe or remove all private information from their used cell phones and computers before recycling them. All equipment is shredded into smaller than two-inch pieces, then separated and sold to recyclers.
Total Reclaim has signed the "Pledge of True Stewardship," which, among other things, guarantees they will not allow any hazardous electronic waste to be sent to a solid waste landfill for disposal.
For more information, contact Faust at 235-6262.
