Televisions

Reduce | Reuse | Recycle | Facilities

How do I go green?

Reduce

Replacing a working television is hard on the environment no matter what you do with the old one. Can you get a few more years out of the old TV? Use the computer as a movie screen? What about postponing until the end of summer—who needs a new television when daylight lasts until 10?

If buying a refurbished or new television, pick a company with an excellent environmental record and established recycling programs. Leave the box in the store to encourage less packaging and choose a smaller model to minimize your environmental impact.

Reuse

Does your television still work? If so, consider donating it to a local charity, school group, non-profit or family member. Try offering your television on Freecycle, Craigslist or usedvictoria.com.

Recycle

Televisions are included in the Product Stewardship Program. An Environmental Handling Fee (EHF) is added at the point of sale. Get your money’s worth, and recycle it at registered locations.  Not all of the facilities listed below are part of the Product Stewardship program.  If they are not they may charge a recycling fee.

Some manufacturers, such as Sony, accept old electronics, for recycling at no charge. Inquire at electronics stores about local recycling programs and ask where the electronics end up.

Read more about electronics and their final resting places—both the good and the not so good—in the Computers section of the Recyclopedia.