Electronic Waste Drive

Project Leader: Hunter J. Maret: hjmnrf@mail.missouri.edu

 

About the Electronic Waste Drive:

The Electronic Waste Drive was founded in 2011 by former Sustain Mizzou president Tina Casagrand as an answer to the growing problem of improper electronic disposal, which leaches toxins from landfills and endangers people who expose themselves to dumps, looking for scrap metal, particularly in developing countries. See below for more information.

The 2011 event was Tuesday, February 22 through Thursday, February 24. Volunteers collected electronics on Lowry Mall and inside the student center between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. We collected a total of 2,316 pounds.

The 2012 event was Monday, April 23 through Wednesday, February 25. Volunteers collected electronics at the Student Center parking lot and inside the student center between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. We collected a total of 4,817 pounds.

Sustain Mizzou intends to make this an annual event, so look for more information in the 2013 spring semester!

2012 E-Waste Drive Flier

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What counts as E-Waste?
    Good question!  Electronic waste, in this instance, is any electronic with a cord or a battery.  We’ll accept laptops, computers, TVs, hair dryers, calculators, DVD or CD players, electronic toothbrushes, stereos, cell phone and laptop chargers and cords, microwaves, straighteners, keyboards, cell phones, home phones, etc. etc.
  • Why should you recycle your e-waste?
    1. Keep toxins out of landfills and electronics from being shipped overseas for improper handling.
    2. Get useless junk out of your house.
  • Will you help carry in big items?
    We’re going to ask people to bring large items to Lowry Mall.  There we will have a trailer parked between the student success center and the fine arts building.  You can drive up and load all of your stuff there!

A huge thanks to our Co-Sponsors:

  • MU Sustainability Office
  • MidMO Recycling
  • Greener Libraries Council
  • Unions Sustainability Task Force

The Mission

  • LOCAL ACTION: Collect electronic waste at sites on campus and send it to get recycled in an environmentally responsible manner.
  • EDUCATION: Educate students, faculty and staff on the environmental and social justice implications of electronics through visual displays, film screenings and online promotion.
  • COOPERATION: Cooperate with other establishments and groups on campus and in the community to achieve these goals and possibly implement collection and education year-round.