Lake Region Solid Waste Authority
Serving Anderson, Coffey, Franklin, Linn, Miami, Osage, and Shawnee Counties
Electronic Waste Recycling
Electronic devices have become an essential part of everyday life, but they eventually become outdated, damaged, or no longer useful. These discarded electronics—commonly called electronic waste (e-waste)—contain valuable materials that can be recycled, as well as components that require proper management.
Common electronic waste includes:
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Desktop and laptop computers
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Computer monitors
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Televisions (LCD, LED, and older CRT models)
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Cell phones and tablets
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Printers and scanners
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Computer keyboards, mice, and cables
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Networking equipment (routers and modems)
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Audio and video equipment
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Small household electronics and gaming systems
Why Recycling E-Waste Matters
Electronic waste (e-waste) is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world. Proper recycling helps recover valuable materials, protects the environment, and keeps hazardous substances out of landfills.
Electronic products are made from valuable resources and materials, including metals, plastics, and glass, all of which require energy to mine and manufacture. Recycling allows these materials to be recovered and reused, reducing the need for new mining. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), based on U.S. Geological Survey estimates:
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Recycling one million laptops saves the energy equivalent to the electricity used by more than 3,500 U.S. homes in a year.
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For every million cell phones we recycle, 35 thousand pounds of copper, 772 pounds of silver, 75 pounds of gold and 33 pounds of palladium can be recovered
Proper disposal of electronic waste also reduces environmental concerns:
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Many electronics contain substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and other heavy metals. Proper disposal ensures that these materials do not enter the environment, contaminate soil and groundwater and negatively impact water quality, wildlife, or ecosystems.
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Electronic devices take up valuable landfill space and often contain components that do not break down easily. Recycling diverts these materials from disposal facilities and reduces landfill waste
E-Waste Regulations
Opportunities to recycle E-waste in Kansas are growing rapidly, but recycling service is still very limited in most rural counties. Despite the growth in E-waste recycling businesses, convenient service is not available in most small and medium-sized communities.
E-Waste Recycling in the Lake Region
Residents are encouraged to recycle unwanted electronics through approved collection programs whenever possible. Depending on the county or community, local disposal options may include:
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Community collection days or events
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Private collection companies or programs
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Approved electronic recycling contractors
Shawnee County is the only county within the Lake Region that currently accepts e-waste, where can be dropped off as part of their Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) program. Additional details are available on the page: Shawnee County
Alternatively, Lakemary Business Solutions is a private option for disposal of electronic waste in Linn and Miami counties. They accept and properly dispose of outdated electronics, as well as remove data from old computers, cell phones, and other devices. All types of electronics (except televisions) are accepted. Hard drive drilling is available by request for an additional fee.
While Kansas does not have a statewide law banning electronics from landfills, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) oversees the management of electronic waste under the state's Solid Waste regulations. E-waste processing or reclamation facilities (which dismantle, shred, or process e-waste) must obtain a Solid Waste Processing Facility Permit from the KDHE and are required to have comprehensive operating plans, closure plans, and provide sufficient financial assurance.
Additional guidance can be found at US. Environmental Protection Agency – Electronics Donation and Recycling
The service center in Paola has a dedicated box truck used to pick up materials from businesses and locations within Miami, Linn, and Johnson counties. In addition to providing employment opportunities for special needs adults, the service fees charged are typically less than those for comparable services in the area. Discounts are available for large quantities and the program is equipped to do community drop-off events.
Contact Lakemary at (913) 557-4000 or visit their website for more program details and pricing.
Tips for Recycling Electronics:
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Recycle electronics instead of placing them in household trash whenever recycling options are available.
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Remove personal information from computers, phones, and tablets before recycling.
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Remove any batteries from your electronics; they may need to be recycled separately.
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Lithium-ion batteries and devices containing these batteries should NOT go in household garbage or recycling bins.
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Check with the collection site to determine which electronic devices are accepted.
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Transport televisions and monitors carefully to prevent damage.
Some facilities may charge a recycling fee for televisions, computer monitors, or other large electronic devices because of the cost of safely processing these materials.
Protect Your Personal Information
Taking these simple steps helps protect your privacy while allowing your electronics to be safely recycled. Before recycling computers, smartphones, tablets, or other electronic devices:
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Back up any important files
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Perform a factory reset or securely erase all personal data
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Remove SIM cards and memory cards
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Sign out of online accounts when applicable