Feb. 18, 2008 - The New York City Council has passed legislation that would require electronics manufacturers to collect their own products for recycling when New Yorkers are ready to dispose of them. Major corporations including Apple, GE, and Tekserve, one of New York City’s largest computer retailers, have come out in support of the measure, although New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg has vowed to veto the bill.

Under the plan, the city’s Department of Sanitation would have to approve each manufacturer’s collection program, which could include curbside collection, drop-off events, or mail-in options. 

Proponents of the legislation say it will save the city money and give manufacturers a new incentive to design less toxic and easier-to-recycle products. Currently, New Yorkers discard 25,000 tons of computers, MP3 and DVD players, and television sets each year. Most of these electronics, which contain mercury, cadmium, and other toxic heavy metals, are either landfilled or incinerated.

In January, the New York City Council passed legislation requiring large retailers to provide recycling for their plastic shopping bags.