Did you know the world produced over 137 billion pounds of electronic waste in 2023? That staggering number, reported by the United Nations, highlights a growing problem with how we dispose of our electronic products. One of the biggest contributors to this e-waste is old, unused televisions.

Whether you’re upgrading to a sleek new flat-screen or your old Television (TV) simply stopped working, it’s easy to forget about your old set and let it sit in a closet or garage, collecting dust. But here’s the reality: televisions are filled with valuable materials that can be recycled and reused, such as precious metals and natural resources.

Now that you understand why it’s important to recycle your TV, the next step is finding the right place to take it. Luckily, finding a local drop-off spot is easier than you might think. A simple online search for terms like “TV disposal near me” or “TV recycling near me” will bring up a list of local facilities or collection points that accept unwanted electronics like TVs, cell phones, and computer monitors for recycling.

When recycling a TV, it’s important to choose a certified e-waste recycler. Certified recyclers follow strict guidelines to ensure electronics are safely processed and recycled in a way that minimizes environmental impact. They have the necessary equipment to handle hazardous waste and recover valuable components like precious metals, glass, and plastics from the TV, which can be reused in new electronic products. This ensures that natural resources are conserved and less raw material is extracted from the earth.

In some cases, improper recycling practices can harm both people and the environment due to the release of toxic materials. To find a certified e-waste recycler near you, you can visit websites like e-Stewards.org, R2 Solutions, or even CalRecycle if you live in California, as these all offer directories of certified recyclers.

Before you drop off your TV for recycling, there are a few steps you should take to prepare it. Here’s a simple checklist to follow:

1. Unplug and clean the TV: Make sure your TV is unplugged and give it a quick wipe down to remove dust and dirt. This helps ensure it’s in good condition for transport.
2. Remove accessories: Detach any accessories, such as remotes, stands, or wall mounts. These items can usually be recycled separately.
3. Backup your data (for smart TVs): If you have a smart TV, be sure to remove any personal information by resetting it to factory settings. This ensures your data is wiped before the TV is recycled.
4. Transport safely: If possible, package your TV in its original box or use protective materials like blankets or bubble wrap to prevent damage during transport.

By taking these steps, you’ll ensure that your TV is ready for recycling and that no parts are lost or damaged during the process.

Recycling your old TV is an important step toward reducing e-waste and protecting the environment. By properly disposing of your TV, you can help prevent harmful toxic materials from contaminating our planet and ensure that valuable resources like precious metals and plastics are reused instead of wasted. When it comes to recycling electronic products, working with a trusted and certified e-waste recycler like Reboot Tech is key. We specialize in responsibly recycling all kinds of electronics, including TVs, computers, laptops, and more.