The number of drop-off sites for electronic waste recycling in the Upper Peninsula has grown this year by four, bringing the total number of locations to 12. Eight of the sites are funded, in part, by grants from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). The other four are at Goodwill retail locations. “The opportunity to recycle electronic waste – or e-waste – has grown this year to include one in Sands Township in the Marquette area, two in Alger County (Munising) and one in Sault Ste. Marie that will start operations this month,” says Steve Noble, EGLE’s electronics recycling coordinator.
E-waste collection sites accept unwanted electronics such as computers, printers, cell phones, keyboards, cables, and more. By working with registered electronics recyclers, collectors can assure that these products have a reuse opportunity or at a minimum are properly recycled to protect the environment. Noble notes that the expansion of drop off sites for e-waste in rural areas of the state comes as interest in proper disposal has grown. Through its grant program, EGLE has helped communities across Michigan establish local e-waste drop off sites or hold collection events.
Discussions are ongoing with the Potawatomi Indian Community in Hannahville to set up a permanent collection site. Additional sites are planned for the Iron Mountain area. EGLE has developed a flyer that lists locations and shows them on a map. The flyer is also available at EGLE’s exhibit in the Ruth Butler Exhibition Building at the Upper Peninsula State Fair in Escanaba, August 14 to 20, during fair hours. The Michigan Recycling Directory lists recycling locations throughout the state. EGLE’s electronic recycling webpage also lists takeback programs offered by manufacturers.