Computers now being accepted at City’s Household Hazardous Waste Facility 

(October 17, 2007) - Broken or unwanted computer screens, keyboards, CPU’s and printers are now being accepted at Oklahoma City’s Household Hazardous Waste Facility, 3738 SW 15.

“Because computers contain heavy metals like lead, mercury and cadmium we want to keep them out of landfills.  These metals can be both toxic and carcinogenic to the environment,” said facility manager Lyndel Gibson.

Oklahoma City recently contracted with Comtel Liquidators, Inc. to remove the electronic waste, or e-waste, from the facility.  Comtel plans to give the computers a second life by recycling components that can’t be repaired and remanufacture parts that can.

“Public-private agreements like this are being formed all over the nation.  Since technology is improving so quickly, we know the demand for this service will only rise,” Gibson added.

Citizens should remove all personal information from the computer prior to disposal.

Other household waste the facility accepts includes paint, automotive fluid, batteries, lawn and garden chemicals, insecticides, fuels, household cleaners, glue, pool and spa chemicals, aerosol cans and fluorescent light bulbs.

The Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility does not accept tires, refrigerators, biomedical, and radioactive or commercial waste.

Residents bringing their computer or other waste in for disposal can visit the Facility S.W.A.P. room and shop from a variety of free recycled products.

The Household Hazardous Waste Collection site is located within the Municipal Maintenance Facility, at 3738 SW 15.  Hours are 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tuesday – Friday and 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. on Saturdays.  The center is free to Oklahoma City residents.  Bring your City water bill as proof of residency.  For more information call 405 682-7038 or log on to www.okc.gov.