In today’s world, it’s easier than ever to accumulate outdated electronics — from old phones and laptops to dusty printers tucked away in closets. In fact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), electronic waste (“e-waste”) is the fastest-growing part of the waste stream in the United States.
If you’re planning a household move or simply decluttering your home or office, it’s important to know how to safely and responsibly dispose of these items. Here’s how New Yorkers can take action:
1. Use Local Recycling Events and Centers
Fortunately, New York City offers excellent e-waste recycling options. One major resource is the Lower East Side Ecology Center, which hosts free electronics recycling events across the city.
Upcoming 2025 NYC E-Waste Recycling Events:
- May 4 – East Harlem: Thomas Jefferson Park
- May 18 – Brooklyn: Grand Army Plaza
- June 1 – Queens: Queens Botanical Garden
- June 15 – Lower East Side: Tompkins Square Park
- July 13 – Staten Island: Staten Island Mall
- August 10 – Bronx: Bronx Park East
- September 14 – Brooklyn: Prospect Park
- October 5 – Upper West Side: West 83rd Street
- October 19 – Lower East Side: Sara D. Roosevelt Park
- November 9 – Brooklyn: McCarren Park
Check the full list and any updates at LES Ecology Center E-Waste Events.
You can also locate drop-off sites year-round using NYC’s SAFE Disposal Events or through Earth911’s searchable database.
2. Take Advantage of Retail Recycling Programs
Several major retailers in New York participate in electronics recycling programs. You can drop off many types of e-waste, often regardless of where you purchased the item.Popular options include:
- Best Buy (accepts a wide range of electronics; check individual store guidelines)
- Staples (accepts office electronics and accessories)
- Apple (recycles devices and offers trade-in credit in some cases)
Before dropping off your items, it’s a good idea to check program details on each retailer’s website or through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) site, which also tracks manufacturer recycling compliance.
3. Donate Gently Used Electronics
If your electronics are still in working condition, donating can be a fantastic option. Organizations like:
- Goodwill NYNJ
- The Salvation Army
- Computers with Causes
…accept devices like laptops, tablets, and printers, giving them new life and helping underserved communities. Just remember that donation centers are often limited to items that are relatively new and functional.
4. Sell Online — Responsibly
Older or niche electronics might actually hold surprising value! You can list items on sites like:
- Facebook Marketplace
- eBay
- Decluttr (especially good for phones and tablets)
While this option takes a little more effort — such as cleaning, describing, and pricing your items — it can help offset moving costs or just make a little extra money.
Pro tip: List and sell your items before your move to avoid extra packing and hauling.
5. Protect Your Data
Before recycling, donating, or selling any device, make sure to fully wipe your data. Old hard drives, phones, and even printers can store sensitive information.
Many electronics recyclers and retailers offer data destruction services. One option is Reconnect, a program co-sponsored by Dell Technologies and Goodwill, which ensures data is completely erased before repurposing devices.
Alternatively, New Yorkers can also visit the NYC Department of Sanitation’s SAFE Disposal events, where e-waste is handled securely.
Moving Tip from Molloy: If you’re planning a move this year, now is the perfect time to declutter your home — and responsibly recycle electronics you no longer need. Every device you donate or recycle keeps harmful materials out of landfills and makes a difference!
