Take a look into your storage unit. What do you see? An old baby monitor? A decades old printer? Technology moves fast. What’s in today is out tomorrow, often landing unceremoniously in the garbage. Unfortunately, outdated electronics and appliances are the largest and fastest growing component of hazardous waste sent to our local landfills. When you’re ready to get rid of your old electronics and appliances, recycle them at these locations instead.
Clean Out Your Storage Unit Properly – It’s the Law!
The New York State Disposal Ban, enacted April 1, 2015, says you can be fined $100 for placing electronics, such as computers and TVs, at the curb for disposal. So, take heed when cleaning out the electronics from your storage unit.
ecycleNYC
New York City apartment buildings with 10 or more units can sign up with ecycleNYC for free and convenient recycling collection service. Sign up for ecycleNYC here.
DSNY Drop-Off
You can drop off unwanted electronics at any DSNY Household Special Waste Drop-Off Site or SAFE Disposal Event. The closest to Long Island City is the 74 Pike Slip between Cherry Street and South Street, under the Manhattan Bridge. DSNY drop-off sites are only for non-commercial materials from NYC residents. The sites are open from 10 am to 5 pm every Saturday and the last Friday of the month.
Donate
The Salvation Army allows drop offs of newer working electronics for donation, and non-working or older electronics for recycling. Goodwill takes most electronics, while the Lower East Side Ecology Center's Gowanus E-Waste Warehouse accepts all electronics.
Return Them to Retailers
Most retailers will recycle electronics, especially when delivering your new ones. Best Buy, Staples, and Apple all have recycling programs. Although, some restrictions and fees do apply.
Return Them to the Manufacturers
Many name brands offer free mail-back options. Check your brand’s website or the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, which has a list of electronic equipment manufacturers registered in New York State.
Business Electronic Recycling
If you happen to own your own business, 4THBIN offers certified and professional electronics recycling services to NYC based businesses.
For more information on responsibly disposing of electronics in your Long Island City self storage unit, contact the CitiWide Self Storage leasing office. We’ll be happy to help you find a solution.