Microwave Oven

Problems and Particular Challenges with Recycling this item	Many parts of a microwave are recyclable. The problem is finding a place that will accept the microwave in the first place. In most places, you can’t just drop your microwave in your recycling bin. Microwaves are complex appliances, and require specific processing to separate all the components. That means that they need to go to specific recycling centers. Discarding one is also difficult because some electronic recycling facilities accepting computers do not accept microwaves. When disposed improperly, these wastes can leak into water supplies and/or cause air pollution. It may cause a fire or explosion, or give off dangerous fumes. Sanitation workers have been seriously burned, lost their eyesight, or suffered lung damage while compacting hazardous materials. The dangers of such disposal methods might not be immediately obvious, but improper disposal of these wastes can pollute the environment and pose a threat to human health

Procedures, Capacities, and Facilities for Disposing	Since a microwave is considered electronic waste, or e-waste, and needs to be handled by special recycling centers. The easiest way to begin is to search for “electronic recycling center near me” and look at the list of accepted appliances. If microwaves are not explicitly mentioned on the website, call the center to ask about their microwave policy. Some will accept microwaves as drop-offs but not as pick-ups. Don’t forget to contact your municipal government as well, since many provide free waste and recycling services to residents within city limits. Manufacturer and Retailer Take-Back Programs -Your microwave’s manufacturer may offer a take-back program to help consumers recycle their products. However, microwaves are sometimes excluded from manufacturer recycling programs. RETAIL DROP-OFFS‍ -Some big-box retailers have e-waste drop-off boxes in the front of their stores. Before availing yourself of this option, be sure to call the store first to confirm that they will accept microwaves as part of their drop-off program. APPLIANCE REPAIR SHOPS‍ -Look for appliance repair facilities in your neighborhood who will take the microwave off of your hands. They will either repair it and sell it or use it for parts to improve other microwaves.

E Waste Partners for Processing Safely and Successfully	Canadian Electrical Stewardship Association (CESA) info@cesarecycling.ca 1-877-670-CESA (2372) https://www.electrorecycle.ca Manufacturers Recycling Management Company 5775 Wayzata Boulevard, Suite 700 Minneapolis, MN 55416 info@mrmRecycling.com 888-769-0149 \| 952 582-2965 Responsible Appliance Disposal 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Washington, DC 20460 https://www.epa.gov/ Green Citizen GreenCitizen, Inc. 1831 Bayshore HWY, Suite 2 Burlingame, CA, 94010 Phone: 650.493.8700 https://greencitizen.com/contact-greencitizen/