Sedgwick County collects over 2.8M pounds of e-waste in community recycling event

The Sedgwick County Board of Commissioners held a staff meeting on May 13, 2025, focusing on the county's solid waste management programs and the importance of electronic waste recycling. The meeting highlighted the success of recent e-waste events, which have drawn significant community participation and addressed the growing issue of illegal dumping.

During the meeting, officials reported that a Wisconsin-based company has been awarded the county's recycling bid, ensuring that all collected electronic waste is processed domestically and not sent overseas. The county's e-waste events have proven popular, with one recent event attracting over 18,000 vehicles and collecting more than 2.8 million pounds of electronic waste. This initiative not only helps reduce health risks associated with illegal dumping but also provides residents with a convenient way to dispose of outdated electronics.

The discussion also touched on the rising costs associated with electronic disposal, as local businesses have increased fees for recycling items like computer monitors. This has led some residents to resort to illegal dumping, prompting the county to emphasize the importance of accessible disposal options. The county's bulky waste program, which offers free disposal coupons for large items, has successfully diverted over 36 million pounds of material from landfills.

In addition to e-waste management, the meeting addressed the county's broader solid waste initiatives, including education and outreach efforts aimed at promoting proper disposal practices. The county has partnered with local businesses to distribute information on hazardous waste disposal and recycling options, further encouraging community engagement.

Overall, the meeting underscored Sedgwick County's commitment to sustainable waste management and the ongoing need for public awareness regarding proper disposal methods. As the county continues to evolve its programs, officials remain focused on reducing illegal dumping and ensuring that residents have the resources they need to manage their waste responsibly.