Complete Guide to Electronics Recycling Laws in Texas
Understanding Texas electronics recycling laws helps businesses and residents make informed decisions about disposing of electronic equipment. At EverTrade Electronics Recycling, we stay current with all regulations to ensure our Sugar Land customers remain compliant while protecting the environment.
Texas Computer and TV Recycling Programs
Computer Equipment Recycling Law Since 2008, Texas requires computer manufacturers to provide free recycling programs for Texas consumers. This covers:
- Desktop computers
- Laptop computers
- Computer monitors
- Computer peripherals (keyboards, mice, speakers)
Television Recycling Program Similar requirements exist for TV manufacturers, covering:
- Televisions with screens 13 inches or larger
- TV monitors and displays
Business vs. Residential Requirements
For Texas Businesses:
- Cannot dispose of certain electronics in regular trash
- Must use certified recycling facilities for computers and electronics
- Some industries have specific data destruction requirements
- Documentation may be required for compliance audits
For Residential Customers:
- Can often dispose of small electronics in regular trash (though not recommended)
- Encouraged to use recycling programs
- Many free recycling options available
EPA and Federal Regulations
Hazardous Waste Considerations: Some electronics contain materials regulated under federal hazardous waste laws:
- Lead in older CRT monitors and TVs
- Mercury in fluorescent backlights
- Cadmium in batteries and components
HIPAA and Data Security: Healthcare businesses must ensure electronic devices are properly sanitized to protect patient information.
What This Means for Fort Bend County Residents
Recommended Best Practices:
- Never throw electronics in regular trash – even if technically legal
- Use certified recycling facilities like EverTrade Electronics
- Ensure data destruction for any device that stored personal information
- Keep documentation if required for your business
For Sugar Land Businesses:
- Establish a regular electronics recycling schedule
- Document your recycling activities
- Ensure your recycling partner follows all applicable laws
- Consider data destruction services for sensitive information
How EverTrade Ensures Compliance
Proper Processing: We follow all Texas and federal guidelines for electronics recycling, ensuring materials are handled safely and responsibly.
Documentation: We can provide certificates of recycling for businesses requiring compliance documentation.
Data Security: Our data destruction processes meet industry standards for protecting sensitive information.
Environmental Protection: We ensure electronics are recycled responsibly, keeping hazardous materials out of Texas landfills.
Accepted Items at EverTrade
Always Accepted (Free):
- Desktop and laptop computers
- Computer monitors (LCD only)
- Smartphones and tablets
- Printers and office equipment
- Computer accessories
Special Handling:
- TVs (small processing fee applies)
- Hard drives requiring certified destruction
- Large quantities requiring pickup
Not Accepted:
- CRT monitors and tube TVs
- Large appliances
- Batteries (except those inside devices)
Planning Your Electronics Recycling
For Individuals:
- Collect electronics quarterly or annually
- Prepare devices by backing up data and performing factory resets
- Bring to our Sugar Land facility during business hours
For Businesses:
- Schedule regular pickup services
- Maintain inventory of electronics for disposal
- Plan for data destruction requirements
- Keep documentation for compliance
Staying Compliant in Fort Bend County
The best way to ensure compliance with Texas electronics recycling laws is to work with a reputable local recycling facility. At EverTrade, we handle the compliance requirements so you can focus on your business or family.
Contact EverTrade Electronics
Questions about Texas recycling laws or compliance requirements?
Phone: (832) 777-3002
Email: info@EverTradeElectronics.com
Location: 10100 Belknap Rd., Suite B5, Sugar Land, TX 77498
Hours:
- Monday-Friday: 8:00am-4:00pm
- Saturday: 8:00am-1:00pm
- Walk-ins welcome!
Serving Sugar Land, Fort Bend County, and Greater Houston with compliant electronics recycling since 2017.
