The Top TV Recycling Programs in Chicago: Which Ones Are the Best?

Old televisions — especially CRT models — are among the most problematic items in the e-waste stream due to their lead content. Chicago area residents and businesses have several options for TV recycling. For individuals, the City of Chicago and Cook County operate periodic e-waste collection events accepting televisions at no charge. Many municipalities in the suburbs offer their own collection days or drop-off arrangements. The Illinois EPA maintains a searchable database of approved e-waste collection sites.

For businesses disposing of televisions in volume — hotel renovations, healthcare facility upgrades, commercial AV system replacements, corporate relocation projects — municipal collection events are typically not practical due to volume restrictions and lack of business documentation. A commercial ITAD service is the appropriate solution, providing pickup scheduling, chain-of-custody documentation, and certificates of recycling that serve as compliance evidence.

When evaluating any TV recycling program, ask specifically where CRT glass goes. CRT glass containing lead requires specialized processing — it cannot simply be crushed and landfilled or mixed with regular glass cullet. CRT glass is typically processed into lead-bearing secondary smelter feed or into new CRT glass at facilities that still operate CRT glass lines. STS Recycling works with verified downstream CRT glass processors. Contact Chicago Lamp Recycling at 866-770-2650 for commercial television recycling.