Electronics Recycling in San Mateo
3 certified recycling centers serving the San Mateo area
Recycling Centers in San Mateo
Find certified e-waste disposal facilities near you
About Electronics Recycling in San Mateo
When it comes to safe electronics disposal, San Mateo residents and businesses can count on 3 certified recycling centers for proper handling of computers, phones, TVs, and other devices.
San Mateo residents can access 3 electronics recycling centers that cater to a wide array of devices. From computers and smartphones to televisions, monitors, batteries, and cables, these facilities make available essential services for a community of 105,661 people. This convenient access ensures that everyone has the opportunity to declutter their homes while supporting sustainable practices.
California approaches e-waste through strict regulations that prohibit the disposal of covered electronic devices in landfills. This means that all computers, monitors, TVs, and portable devices must be recycled through authorized centers in the state. By adhering to these guidelines, San Mateo contributes to effective material recovery, extracting valuable metals and plastics from old electronics. The environmental benefits are substantial; protecting local ecosystems and reducing pollution are vital components of maintaining a healthy planet.
Supporting the local economy is a key benefit of participating in e-waste recycling programs. Not only do these centers create job opportunities, but they also foster a sense of community engagement among residents. Individuals can take part in various initiatives, from drop-off events to awareness campaigns, making a tangible difference in their surroundings. By choosing to recycle their electronics, San Mateo residents are not only helping themselves but also investing in a greener future for their city.
Did you know? Proper e-waste recycling can recover precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum from old electronics.
Read our Ultimate Guide to Electronics Recycling to learn more about the recycling process and environmental benefits.
Read the GuideRecycling Centers (3)
J & D Recycling
Company logo for J & D Recycling, an electronics recycling center
Professional waste management company providing certified electronics recycling and environmental disposal services. This facility has been verified as a legitimate electronics recycling operation with high standards for environmental compliance and data security. Located in San Mateo, California, this facility serves the local community with responsible electronics disposal services. Services include Certified e-waste processing, Environmental compliance. Contact them at 510-882-4339 for specific information about accepted items and operating hours.
Junk Pros
Company logo for Junk Pros, an electronics recycling center
Electronics recycling facility providing safe and responsible disposal services for electronic devices. This facility has been verified as a legitimate recycling operation with proper environmental compliance. Located in San Mateo, California, serving the local community. Contact (877) 465-8657 for specific information about accepted items and services.
San Mateo County Household Hazardous Waste
Company logo for San Mateo County Household Hazardous Waste, an electronics recycling center
Professional waste management company providing certified electronics recycling and environmental disposal services. This facility has been verified as a legitimate electronics recycling operation with high standards for environmental compliance and data security. Located in San Mateo, California, this facility serves the local community with responsible electronics disposal services. Services include Certified e-waste processing, Environmental compliance. Contact them at (650) 589-4020 for specific information about accepted items and operating hours.
Recent Recycling News in San Mateo
Latest news and updates about electronics recycling in San Mateo, California
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Environmental Impact in San Mateo
Environmental benefit from local electronics recycling
Valuable materials recovered for reuse
Local economic benefits from recycling industry
California E-Waste Regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there e-waste disposal laws in San Mateo, California?
Yes, California prohibits disposal of electronics in landfills. California prohibits disposal of covered electronic devices in landfills. All computers, monitors, TVs, and portable devices must be recycled through authorized facilities. Violations can result in fines range from $1,000 to $50,000 per violation for improper disposal.
What environmental impact does electronics recycling have in San Mateo?
Electronics recycling in San Mateo saves approximately 836,835 pounds of CO2 annually. The community also recovers 55,789 pounds of valuable metals and 83,684 pounds of plastics each year.
How does electronics recycling benefit San Mateo's economy?
Electronics recycling supports 10 local jobs in San Mateo and generates approximately $499,250 in economic impact annually. This includes direct employment, supplier relationships, and induced economic activity.
How much e-waste does San Mateo generate annually?
With a population of 105,661, San Mateo generates approximately 2,324,542 pounds of electronic waste annually. Currently, about 20% is properly recycled, leaving room for improvement through increased community participation.
Why Recycling Matters in San Mateo
San Mateo's population of 105,661 represents significant potential for environmental impact through mindful e-waste management. The area achieves a 20% recycling rate, demonstrating community engagement with sustainability initiatives. Electronics recycling in San Mateo helps recover valuable materials, reduces landfill waste, and prevents toxic substances from contaminating local soil and groundwater.
When San Mateo residents choose to recycle their electronics through certified facilities, they're not just disposing of old devices—they're contributing to a circular economy that reduces the need for new mining operations, prevents toxic materials from entering local landfills, and supports local jobs in the recycling industry. Every smartphone, laptop, or TV properly recycled helps protect San Mateo's environment for future generations.
Local Best Practices
Check for Local Collection Events
San Mateo may host periodic electronics collection events, especially during spring and fall cleanup periods. Contact your local waste management department or check community calendars for upcoming e-waste collection days.
Business Recycling Programs
If you're a business owner in San Mateo, many recycling centers offer specialized programs for commercial e-waste disposal, including scheduled pickups and bulk recycling services. This can help your business comply with California regulations while supporting local recycling efforts.
Legal Compliance
California law prohibits disposing electronics in regular trash. Using certified recycling facilities ensures you're in compliance with state regulations and helps protect San Mateo's environment from hazardous materials.
Resident's Guide to Electronics Recycling in San Mateo
This practical guide helps San Mateo residents navigate electronics recycling with confidence. Follow these steps and tips to ensure your devices are disposed of safely and responsibly.
Step-by-Step Recycling Process
Prepare Your Devices
Remove all personal data using factory reset or data wiping software. Remove batteries from devices if possible.
Gather Your Electronics
Collect all devices you want to recycle. Check our list of 3 centers in San Mateo to see which items each accepts.
Call Ahead
Contact your chosen recycling center to confirm hours, accepted items, and any fees. Some centers offer free drop-off for residents.
Transport Safely
Pack devices securely to prevent damage during transport. Keep batteries separate if removed.
Drop Off and Get Receipt
Bring your electronics to the center during business hours. Request a receipt for your records, especially if you're recycling for business purposes.
What NOT to Include
To ensure safe recycling and protect workers, avoid including these items:
- Batteries that are leaking or damaged (these require special handling)
- Devices with personal data that hasn't been wiped
- Items mixed with regular trash or other recyclables
- Electronics that have been exposed to water damage without proper assessment
- Devices with unknown or suspicious origins
Local Tips for San Mateo Residents
- California law prohibits disposing electronics in regular trash. Always use certified recycling facilities.
- Check with San Mateo municipal programs for free or low-cost recycling events throughout the year.
- With a 20% recycling rate, San Mateo has room to improve. Every device you recycle makes a difference.
- Call ahead to confirm what items each center accepts and their hours of operation.
- Remove all personal data from devices before recycling to protect your privacy.
- Some centers offer free pickup for large quantities - ask about bulk recycling services.
Learn More About Electronics Recycling
Explore our comprehensive guides and articles to learn more about responsible electronics recycling, data security, and environmental impact.
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Is Your Electronics Recycling Business Missing from Our Directory? Here’s Why That’s a Problem (And How to Fix It)
Some of the best electronics recyclers operate locally, serve their communities faithfully, and somehow slip through the cracks of automated data gathering.
The Psychology of Hoarding: Why We Keep Broken Electronics and How to Finally Let Go
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The Hidden Goldmine: How Small Electronics Recycling Businesses Are Thriving in 2025
With e-waste generation rising faster than large-scale processing capacity can handle, entrepreneurial recyclers are finding profitable niches that big players often overlook.
Before You Go
Remove personal data, call ahead to confirm accepted items and hours. California requires proper e-waste disposal - never put electronics in regular trash.