free Electronics and Gift Card RECYCLING

[grumpy]

Don't know where best to post this... but I figure we should all do our part and it's spring cleaning time.

Best Buy will take your old electronics, batteries, CDs, and gift cards (that can't be reloaded) for recycling.
http://www.bestbuy.ca/en-CA/recycling.aspx

I think MEC will take cell phones and printer cartridges too.

If you know of any other convenient places, please let us know!

edit: So glad so many people are contributing to this thread!

[Ciel]

http://www.staples.ca/ENG/static/static_pages.asp?pagename=soulrecycling&cm_sp=Spla sh-_-Soul-_-recycling

Staples does toner cartridge recycling. Link also lists other provincial recycling programs in Quebec, Ontario and Alberta.

Some community organizations will collect used cellphones to refurbish them for shelter clients.
http://www.211canada.ca/ Use the link to find organizations in your community.

I forgot to suggest keeping an eye on major malls in your area during April or October-they may host environmental activities that include free drop-off sites for old electronics. Worthwhile to get on the mall newsletters which will alert you to upcoming events at the malls.

[MeMew]

Regarding giftcard recycling, I think it would be better if we reload the card again if possible. If not, save those GCs for your kid to play Memory game, to learn counting and doing basic math, or to make crafts, etc.

[lorvanallen]

Anyone know where to take small kitchen appliances (blenders, mixers, etc)?

[Ciel]

Small appliances-where to donate to shops that accept these items:

Value Village
http://www.valuevillage.com/What-to-Donate.aspx
Goodwill
http://www.goodwill.on.ca/2006_whattodonate.html

Can't get a link for Salvation Army's Thrift Store donated items list.
http://www.thriftstore.ca/

See if your local post-secondary school (college/university) might have a student union-run shop/service that accepts household items that its students might need, like Fanshawe College's program:
http://www.fanshawec.ca/EN/counselling/997/sharing.html

If you are in a major city, you likely have more possible places to locate. Try 211ontario.ca to see which community groups run a thrift store in your area and what they accept.

[Anne99]

Great Information! Thanks.

[Sheda Hudda]

great info. thx

[jenna]

thanx great thread