Proper disposal of electronics essential for protecting environment

Posted: Dec 28, 2020 / 08:26 PM EST / Updated: Dec 28, 2020 / 08:27 PM EST

An Afghan collects recyclable material from a garbage dump in Kabul, Afghanistan, Monday, Dec. 21, 2020. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul)

RICHMOND, Va. (WFXR) – With Christmas in our rear-view mirror, many who may have gotten new electronics may be looking to rid themselves of their older technology.

With that in mind, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has taken to social media to urge those who are planning to throw away their old electronics, to think first.

Electronics can have items inside of them that could contaminate landfills and harm both people and equipment that handle it.

If you have an old electronic item you wish to get rid of, don’t simply throw it away.

The Virginia DEQ recommends donating items, or find e-waste recycling in your area.