In New York City, beginning Jan 2015, residents can no longer put used electronic devices in the trash.
These devices include: TVs, monitors, computers, laptops, small servers, printers/scanners, tablets/e-readers, MP3 players, VCRs/DVRs/DVD players, fax machines, video game consoles, cable/satellite boxes, mice and keyboards.
There are 5 recycling options for disposing them.
1. e-CYCLEnyc
NYC apartment buildings with 10+ units can enroll for a free pickup service via nyc.gov/ecycle.
2. Retail drop off
You can drop off electronics at any Goodwill, Salvation Army, Best Buy, Staples (no TVs), or the Gowanus E-Waste Warehouse. For more info, see nyc.gov/electronics.
3. Free mail-back
Some brands offer free mail-back programs. Check the brand's website for specifics.
4. Recycling events
There are NYC organizations that run electronics recycling events. For dates, check, nyc.gov/safedisposal.
5. Donate/sell working electronics.
For options, see nyc.gov/stuffexchange.
Here are recycling optiosn for similar items:
Mobile phones: Use the options above or take to any wireless service provider.
Appliances and housewares: If they are mostly metal or rigid plastic, recycle with your other rigid plastics, metal, glass and cartons. Remove batteries first.
Rechargeable batteries: Most stores in NYS that sell rechargeable batteries will take them back for recycling. Regular batteries go in regular trash.