E-waste Guide
Disposal Options and Information
Background:
Today's society has become increasingly dependent upon consumer electronic products. We talk on our cell phones, surf the internet and send email on our computers, print and fax photos and documents, listen to music on our ipods and MP3 players, and watch television. These products provide entertainment and convenience in our daily activities--both personal and professional. But, when these products become outdated, unwanted, or broken they are considered e-waste (electronic waste) and disposal is not so convenient.
E-waste contains hazardous materials such as cadmium, mercury, hexavalent Chromium, brominated flame retardants and lead. One computer monitor can contain up to 8 pounds of lead. Montana has no regulations banning e-waste from landfills. However, this does not mean it is a safe or preferred disposal option. In fact, consumer electronics may be responsible for 40% of the lead found in landfills.
Community Collection Events:
The next collection event will occur April 17, 2009 for business e-waste and on April 18 for residential recycling. The time and location are TBA.
Current Disposal Options:
NEW - Dell and Staples Launch FREE E-Recyling for Dell Customers Consumers may now recycling their Dell brand computers, monitors, mice and more at any Staples branch for free.
Staples in Bozeman will accept any brand computer monitors, CPUs, printers and fax machines for fee of $10 per item. Keyboards, mice and speakers are accepted for free. Staples
Office Depot in Bozeman sells shipping boxes at various prices ($5 - $15) which you take home and fill with your e-waste. Then, bring the box back to Office Depot and they will ship your e-waste to a recycler.
Residents are reminded that even though our community e-waste collection events have been held at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds, these events have been scheduled for one-time drop-off only on specified days and residents should not drop off e-waste at the Fairgrounds now or in the future as this facility does not have the capability to handle these products.
Brochures and Fact Sheets by the GLWQD
Gallatin E-waste Recycling Event White Papers
Recycling Information and Options
Manufacturer Take-Back Recycling Programs
Data Security
Freeware that wipes hard drives clean (Provided by MT DEQ)
Software for destroying data (Provided by MT DEQ)
If you have any further questions, please contact the Gallatin Local Water Quality District at 582-3148, 582-3145 or email us.
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