HOULTON, Maine — People looking to get rid of an old television or other electronic device are in luck.
The Houlton Rotary Club is hosting its second annual “E-Waste Recycling Day” on Saturday, Sept. 9, at the St. Mary’s church parking lot located at 112 Military St. The event is open to anyone who wishes to toss an electronic item.
“We invite everyone to get involved in this worthwhile project,” said Mac Randolph, Houlton Rotarian.
Last year, Rotarians shattered their anticipated goal as a total weight of 60,539 pounds was collected. The total pallets were 152, which filled almost four full-sized 50-foot tractor trailer loads.
“That’s over 30 tons of electronic waste that did not go into a landfill, get dumped in the woods or wind up on the side of the road,” Randolph said.
Among the items accepted are televisions, computers, monitors, printers, copiers, fax machines, cell phones, microwaves, game consoles, cd players, dvd players, medical electronics, industrial electronics, lead acid batteries, mercury thermostats and portable electronic devices.
There is no charge for disposing of electronics, but those dropping off items are asked to give a small donation to the Rotary. Last year, the group raised $3,583 from donations. Proceeds from this year’s event benefit Houlton Rotary and the Aid for Kids Project.
The cost of the recycling effort is paid from sponsorships.
