County to Collect Electronic Waste in Scotch Plains this Saturday

Just a reminder that Union County will be hosting a recycling event for electronic waste in Scotch Plains on Saturday.

The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Union County Vo-Tech Schools, 1776 Raritan Rd.

Residents can drop off their unwanted televisions, computers and other electronics so that they can be disposed of in an environmentally safe way.

Computer monitors, hard drives, modems, keyboards, CPUs, mice, printers, scanners, speakers, VCRs, fax machines, telephones and circuit boards can also be disposed. Refrigerators, washers and dryers, microwaves, and air conditioners will not be taken.

Electronic waste recycling isn't without its controversy. News reports have revealed that some companies that collect the materials ultimately ship them overseas to places with lax environmental regulations.

Union County Spokesman Thomas Plante said on Thursday that he doesn't know off-hand which company the county has an agreement with, but that any company they do use is supposed to keep close track of the materials and comply with environmental regulations.

The e-waste event is open to all Union County residents. No pre-registration is required, but you must bring proof of your residency. Businesses are not allowed to participate.

There is no cost to participate, but there is a limit of six electronic items per car.

For a complete list of accepted materials, go here.

For more information, call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889.