Best Buy Tests Free E-Waste Recycling

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MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- Best Buy Co. launched an electronics recycling service at 117 stores as part of a pilot program that could eventually roll out nationally. 

The pilot program, which will test in the Baltimore, San Francisco and Minnesota markets, will allow consumers to turn in unwanted electronics devices free of charge. The company will accept up to two phones, cameras and televisions and monitors under 32-inches.

The company worked with nonprofit As You Sow on the program after the organization filed a shareholder proposal imploring the retailer to test free electronic waste take-back program in its stores. As You Sow, which has also worked with Apple and Dell on their e-waste recycling policies, withdrew the proposal in April after the company agreed to test an in-store recycling program.

“Making electronics recycling almost as easy as purchasing these goods has the potential to simplify recycling efforts for millions of consumers who may be confused about where to recycle goods in their area,” said Conrad MacKerron, director of As You Sow’s corporate social responsibility program.

The vast majority of unwanted consumer electronics -- between 80 percent and 90 percent -- is sent to landfills, in storage or exported from the U.S. Best Buy said it would use recycling vendors who won’t improperly export any hazardous waste associated with the program and use best practices.

Best Buy also offers recycling services for items not included in the program, such as an appliance and television pick-up option where the company charges $100 to remove up to two units from consumers’ homes. The company offers the same service for free if a new product is purchased and delivered by Best Buy.

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