Electronics Recycling

Illinois Leads Effort to Recycle Electronics

In fall 2006 Illinois became the first state in the Midwest to begin recycling its surplus computers, cell phones and other electronic equipment to prevent leaks of mercury, lead and other toxins into the environment. Now the State's electronics will be recycled - or refurbished and reused.

More than 90% of outmoded electronic equipment nationwide winds up in landfills or illegal dumps, risking toxic leaks that can pose health dangers. Now that will change – at least in Illinois . Gov. Blagojevich recently issued an Executive Order requiring State agencies, boards and commissions to safely dispose of its “e-scrap" - and urged legislators to pass a law requiring that Illinois citizens recycle their old electronics instead of junking them.