New! Year-round electronics collection

The year-round electronics collection site is now open! Drop off your electronics any time in the electronics freight container, located behind the Lighthouse Inn next to the plastics recycling drop-off. We accept all electronics except for large kitchen appliances (microwaves are okay). There are also boxes to drop off batteries (except car batteries), compact fluorescent lights, cell phones, and ink cartridges. Please put any gently used working electronics in the freecycle section of the conex. This is a spot to drop off unwanted but workable goods so others can reuse them. If you are in need of a TV, radio, or some other device, feel free to search through the freecycle section. For more information about recycling in Cordova, visit the Recycling Overview page or download the Cordova Recycling Guide.

Diverting waste from our landfill

NVE began sponsoring electronics recycling in 2007 with funding from the Environmental Protection Agency's Indian General Assistance Program (EPA-IGAP). Electronics recycling is made possible by generous shipping donations from Alaska Marine Lines. As of December 2009, NVE has sent 13 tons of electronic waste to be recycled! That's roughly 50 pallets full of electronics that have been diverted from Cordova's landfill.

Not only does electronics recycling save space and thus extend the life of our landfill, but it also prevents hazardous materials from being stored there. Older computer monitors and televisions can contain up to 7 pounds of lead, and newer cathode ray tubes still contain 2 pounds of lead on average. LCD screens and compact florescent light bulbs (CFLs) contain small amounts of mercury. Other hazardous materials found in electronics include brominated flame retardants in plastics and cadmium in older rechargeable batteries.

Reusing your workable electronics is the best way to recycle. Consider donating them to a school or non-profit, which may be tax deductible. Donate them to the salvation army or ask around for someone who is in need of whatever you have. NVE welcomes anyone looking for electronics to dig through the white electronics trailer and take whatever they want. We only ask that you not unwrap any items already palletized.

Get more information about electronics recycling at the EPA's website.