The Top TV Recycling Programs in the U.S.: Which Ones Are the Best?

Televisions, particularly older cathode ray tube (CRT) models, are among the most hazardous items in the household and commercial e-waste stream. A single CRT television can contain four to eight pounds of lead in its glass panel — lead that was deliberately added to shield viewers from X-ray emissions but that becomes an environmental hazard when the set is discarded. Flat-panel LCD and OLED televisions contain less lead but include other hazardous materials: mercury in some LCD backlights, and various metals in their circuit boards.

In the United States, the most reliable TV recycling programs are those operating under state e-waste laws requiring manufacturer funding. Illinois's Electronic Products Recycling and Reuse Act creates a manufacturer-funded framework for consumer electronics recycling. Many electronics manufacturers also operate voluntary take-back programs — some accepting televisions at retail locations or through mail-in programs. The key is ensuring the collected TVs go to a certified downstream processor, not a broker who may export them to informal recycling operations overseas.

For businesses disposing of large quantities of televisions — from hotel renovations, office upgrades, or commercial AV system replacements — STS Recycling provides certified commercial TV recycling with serialized certificates of recycling and full downstream documentation. We accept CRT and flat-panel televisions in any condition. Contact Chicago Lamp Recycling at 866-770-2650 to arrange commercial TV disposal.