El Cerrito, C.A. – On Saturday, June 3, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. Assemblywoman Loni Hancock (D-Berkeley) will join El Cerrito Mayor Janet Abelson and other volunteers to kick-off a free e-waste recycling event hosted by El Cerrito’s Integrated Waste Management and Universal Waste Management, Inc. The event will take place in the main parking lot of El Cerrito City Hall, located at 10890 San Pablo Avenue, in El Cerrito.

Earlier this year, there was an important change in California making it illegal for households to dispose of electronics in the trash. “E-waste”, which includes computer monitors, cell phones, televisions and MP3 players can contain lead, chromium, cadmium, mercury, beryllium, zinc and flame retardants. These toxic materials can present problems when e-waste is not disposed of properly, threatening public health and the environment. Recycling outdated electronics promotes the safe management of hazardous components and supports the recovery and reuse of valuable materials.

In order to recycle e-waste, many households must travel to their county hazardous waste facilities, which are not conveniently located, and often wait on long lines and are required to pay drop-off fees. To make the recycling of these outdated electronics easier and more convenient for the community, the City of El Cerrito will host a two-day e-waste recycling event on Saturday, June 3 and Sunday, June 4. Accepted items will include: computer monitors, computers/computer components, televisions, VCR and DVD players, toner cartridges, Drop is free and open to all residents and businesses. There will not be a residency requirement and no appointment is necessary.

For more information, please call Terri Waller at (510) 559-1406.