NYC Records 60% Drop in Improperly Disposed Electronic Waste

SEATTLE (Waste Advantage): New York City’s total improperly disposed electronic waste has decreased by nearly 60 percent from 2005 to 2017, thanks in part to Staten Island’s E-waste pickup program. 

Councilman Steven Matteo (R-Mid-Island) proposed the e-waste pickup pilot program in 2016 due to frequent illegal dumping of electronics like televisions throughout the borough.

In just months, the pilot was proven successful and Mayor Bill de Blasio announced its expansion to the other boroughs. Currently, e-waste curbside pickup is available on Staten Island and in Northern Brooklyn, but the city plans to expand the program to the Bronx and Queens in the next couple of years.

“It was not only a tremendous success, but it has become a permanent city program that is being expanded to other boroughs,” Matteo wrote on Facebook Thursday.

The city spent $1.3 million on the first year pilot program. When fully implemented, the cost will rise to $4 million. 

“I am extremely proud to have helped make this happen, and proud of my constituents on Staten Island for leading the way,” Matteo added.

The state banned tossing e-waste in the trash to protect landfills from the highly toxic materials that can be found in old televisions, computers and other electronics. Including these items in trash or recycling can result in a $100 fine. 

However, through the now-permanent e-waste program, Staten Islanders can make an appointment to have their old or broken electronics collected by the Department of Sanitation (DSNY). 

Courtesy: https://wasteadvantage.com