With the many negative effects that electronic products can have on our natural resources, it is important that we do all we can to help protect our environment. Last year, in an effort to stop more harm to our atmosphere, the E-waste recycling program was signed into law (Ch. 99 of 2010). This program ensures that hazardous toxins from unused electronic devices, such as computers, printers and cellular phones, are not released into the environment when disposed of. Also, by decreasing the amount of waste and providing proper disposal, the program helps save the limited space in our landfills.

There are several places in Monroe County where you can drop off any unwanted computer or television. For more information on these programs, call the numbers listed below.

• ABVI-Goodwill 422 Clinton Avenue South Rochester, NY 14620 Phone: (585) 232-1111
• Rochester Computer Recycling and Recovery 395 Central Avenue Rochester, NY 14605 Phone: (585) 924-3840
• Maven Technologies 1450 Lyell Avenue Rochester, NY 14606 Phone: (585) 458-2460
• Imagine It Recycling 565 Blossom Road, Suite D Rochester, NY 14610 Phone: (585) 872-5802

You could also donate your functional home computer to Micrecycle, a not-for-profit organization that accepts certain usable computer components for reuse. They are located at 98 College Ave Rochester, NY 14607 (585) 224-4040.

The E-waste recycling program is an important step in working to save the environment, but there is still much more we can do. I urge everyone to do their part to ensure that we do all we can to protect the environment.