Electronics Recycling in Pennsylvania

E-Waste Recycling Laws and Programs in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania manages electronics recycling through the Covered Device Recycling Act (CDRA) of 2010. This law requires manufacturers of covered devices – specifically TVs, desktop and laptop computers, monitors, and peripherals – to fund and arrange for recycling programs accessible to residents. Since January 2013, Pennsylvania has also banned those covered electronic devices from landfill disposal, meaning consumers cannot simply put them out with the trash. Electronics recycling in Pennsylvania is carried out via collection sites (for example, at county recycling centers, Goodwill stores, or other designated drop-offs) and one-day collection events sponsored by manufacturers and recyclers. While the program has faced challenges in some regions (at times demand for e-waste drop-off has exceeded the available sites), the law has established the expectation that Pennsylvanians will recycle their old electronics. Overall, the CDRA has helped divert millions of pounds of e-waste from Pennsylvania landfills and provides a framework for ongoing manufacturer involvement in e-waste management.