Best Buy ends free TV & Computer recycling

Best Buy has announced changes to its in-store recycling program.

Effective immediately, Best Buy will charge a $25 fee for each television and computer monitor they receive for recycling to help keep their recycling program sustainable.  Recently, recycling costs have risen for televisions and computer monitors.  In order to continue their commitment to being a convenient, local resource for people to safely dispose of consumer electronics, the chain has taken this step to continue the service while working with industry leaders to develop other recycling options.

“E-waste volume is rising, commodity prices are falling and global outlets for recycled glass, a key component of TVs and monitors, have dramatically declined.” says Laura Bishop, Vice President of Public Affairs for Best Buy Co., Inc.  “While providing recycling solutions for our customers is a priority, Best Buy should not be the sole e-cycling provider in any given area, nor should we assume the entire cost.”

Fair enough.  Which opens the discussion of extended producer responsibility, or EPR; a strategy designed to integrate environmental costs and considerations throughout a products full life-cycle, including its eventual disposal, into the market price.  Member organizations of NTCRA are also members of the Texas Product Stewardship Group which aims to promote EPR across Texas.

More information about Best Buy’s changes and the full article itself can be found online here.