How to Dispose of an Old TV Responsibly & Legally

Do you remember the bad old days when televisions were large and bulky, not to mention weighing an absolute ton! Fast forward to today and they are slim, sleek, and digital. It’s a remarkable transformation, but it leaves us with an awkward problem of how to get rid of old TVs. And it’s not just a question of getting rid of them, but also how to dispose of old TVs in an environmentally friendly, legal, and ethical manner. 

If you have an old TV sitting around, taking up space, and collecting dust, then read on to find out how to get rid of an old TV in the best way possible. 

How to get rid of old TVs responsibly

With technology advancing rapidly, and prices falling, the lifespan of TVs has decreased, leading many people are left wondering how to dispose of their old TVs properly. This is not only an issue of decluttering and making space, but also an environmental concern. 

The electronics industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world, with new products and innovations released every year. Unfortunately, this has led to an increase in the amount of electronic waste generated globally. 

Old televisions contain hazardous materials, including lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can be harmful to the environment and human health if not disposed of properly. 

There’s also the consideration of how improperly disposed of TVs can end up in landfill and contribute to environmental pollution. Properly disposing of your old TV not only helps protect the environment but also ensures that hazardous materials are handled safely and responsibly. 

There are several ways to dispose of old TVs in an environmentally friendly manner, including recycling, donating, and selling.

1. Recycling your old TV

Recycling your old TV is one of the best ways to dispose of it responsibly. Recycling not only helps prevent environmental pollution but also recovers valuable materials that can be used in the production of new electronics. 

There are a few options for those wanting to dispose of an old TV using recycling methods, including: 

• Book Zero Waste Group to collect it. We divert over 90% of waste from landfill and can get the TV recycled. 
• Check with your local HWRC to see if they accept old TVs. If they do, it’s likely it will be recycled. 
• Contact the manufacturer of your TV to see if they have a recycling program.
• Look for e-waste recycling events in your community.

2. Donating your old TV

Donating is another great way to dispose of old TVs in an environmentally friendly manner. Many charities accept old TVs and refurbish them for reuse. Donating your old TV not only helps the environment but also helps those in need. 

To donate your old TV, you can:

• Book a Zero Waste Group house clearance to collect your old TV. We work with local charities and will often donate items that can still be used.
• Check with local charities and non-profit organisations to see if they accept old TVs
• Look for donation drives in your community.

3. Sell your old TV

Selling your old TV is another option for disposing of it. Selling not only helps you recoup some of your investment but also ensures that the TV is reused rather than being thrown away. 

To sell your old TV, you can:

• List it on online marketplaces like eBay or Facebook.
• Sell it to a second-hand store.

In conclusion, there are several ways to dispose of old TVs in an environmentally friendly manner. By recycling, donating, or selling your old TV, you can help reduce environmental pollution and ensure that valuable resources are recovered and reused.

Before you dispose of an old TV, do this…

It’s important to check that the old TV is broken before discarding or recycling it, as it could be repaired, potentially saving you both time and money. Consider trtying the following quick checks to assess the state of your TV: 

• Check it’s properly plugged in and try different plug sockets to rule out a faulty plug.
• Check the exterior for any physical damage, such as cracks or disconnected wires.
• Make sure and ensure that all connections are securely and correctly attached to the TV. 

Can I put a TV in the bin?

No, you should not put a TV in the bin in the UK. The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations require that electronic waste, including TVs, be disposed of through designated collection facilities and not mixed with household waste. This is because TVs contain hazardous materials such as lead, cadmium, and mercury which can harm the environment and public health if they end up in landfill sites.

Most local authorities in the UK offer free collection of electronic waste, including TVs, as part of their bulky waste collection service or at designated recycling centers. Many retailers also offer take-back schemes for electronic waste, where you can return your old TV when you buy a new one. You can check with your local council or electronics retailer to find out where to recycle your old TV safely and responsibly.

To conclude on how to dispose of an old TV, it’s worth reflecting on the broader impact of our electronics consumption on the planet. Each and every year, millions of tons of electronic waste are generated globally, with only a small fraction of it being properly recycled or disposed of.

While recycling or donating our old electronics may alleviate our immediate guilt about adding to this waste stream, it’s important to remember that the most sustainable solution is to reduce our overall consumption of electronics. Consider whether you really need that latest gadget or upgrade, and think about the lifespan of your devices before making a purchase.

By being more conscious of our electronics consumption and disposal habits, we can help reduce the environmental impact of our digital lives. So the next time you’re about to upgrade your TV, consider not only how to dispose of your old one but also how to make more sustainable choices in the future. Together, we can make a difference and create a more sustainable world for generations to come.

At Zero Waste Group, we aim to recycle 97% or more of waste that we collect. So, if you want us to dispose of your old TV, call us today for a quote.