Wayne to stage electronic recycling event

By TOM KANE

HONESDALE, PA — Wayne County Recycling Center is holding a one-time, two-day clearance of old worn-out electronic equipment that it normally rejects.

American homes have become electronic havens with the rise in modern technology. Our homes have amassed a collection of hardware that is difficult to throw in the garbage, according to Mary Coar, county recycling coordinator.

“Many consumer electronics contain heavy metals such as lead, cadmium and mercury that are better kept out of the environment,” Coar said. “The typical computer monitor contains four to seven pounds of lead. Televisions, depending on their size, may contain even more.”

Due to the volume of phone calls received at the Recycling Center regarding the disposal of these items, Coar proposed holding an electronic collection event for Wayne County residents. She made her presentation to the Wayne County commissioners at their meeting on February 7.

The event will be scheduled for Friday, April 21 and Saturday, April 22 at the Wayne County Fair Grounds. April 22 is Earth Day. “Depending on how it goes, this may be held at regular times during the year,” Coar said.

The commissioners readily agreed.

The electronic waste will be removed by EnviroCycle of Susquehanna County.

A minimum cost, to be determined later, will be charged for certain items, she said.

The cost to the county will be 16 cents per pound but will be lowered to 10 cents per pound for items that are less toxic.

“We will be publicizing this event widely as we get closer to April 21 and 22,” said Tony Herzog, chairman of the commissioners. “We will also determine exactly what we are going to charge residents. We need their help in defraying the cost of trucking and personnel.”

For more information, call the Recycling Center at 570/253-9395.