Retailer begins green recycling program (5/20/09)

This year, consumers will retire more than two million tons of “tech trash” – old cell phones, rechargeable batteries, ink-jet cartridges and more. The good news is that many of the materials in these items can be recycled or refurbished.

Best Buy is one of the first to provide ways for consumers to dispose of electronics safely and easily, in an environmentally friendly way. All Best Buy stores in the U.S. now accept most consumer electronics, including televisions and monitors up to 32”, computer CPUs and notebook PCs, small electronics, VCRs and DVD players, phones and accessories such as keyboards, mice and remote controls.

In addition, the retailer offers recycling kiosks in the entryway of every store where customers may drop off cell phones, rechargeable batteries, ink-jet cartridges, gift cards, CDs, DVDs, PDAs and smart phones free of charge.

In 2008, customers recycled more than 19,000 tons of electronics through Best Buy.

Source: Focus on Energy’s ENERGY STAR Extra