The Electronics Recycling Competition for Lane County schools is set to conclude on April 24, according to an announcement on Apr. 6. The event, which began January 6, encourages schools and community members to recycle electronic waste and offers prizes for top-performing schools.
The initiative aims to reduce electronic waste in the community while promoting sustainability practices among students and residents. Schools that collect the most e-waste will receive grants of up to $500 from Lane County Waste Management, a gift certificate from NextStep Reuse Store, and special recognition awards.
Jessica Ahrenholtz, Executive Director of NextStep Recycling, said: “Teachers, administrators, students, parents, or anyone wanting to support a school can drop off electronics at the NextStep Donation Center at any time during the competition. When dropping off electronics, let NextStep staff know the name of the school you wish to support. This ensures the school receives proper weight credit, which increases its chances of winning prizes and recognition. Every contribution counts!”
Eligible items include microwaves, TVs, printers, cords and cables, cell phones and computers (including accessories), tablets, game consoles (working or not), remotes and AV equipment such as stereos or DVD players. Non-electronic items like toys or vacuums are not accepted.
During last year’s event in 2025—a record year—48 schools collected over 41 thousand pounds of e-waste. The results for this year’s totals will be available by late May.
Lane County is a government entity in western Oregon with its administrative hub in Eugene that provides essential public services including public safety and health programs according to its official website. The county supports community well-being through youth initiatives while maintaining key facilities across more than 4,600 square miles of urban and rural terrain according to its official website. Lane County extends these services across western Oregon communities under a home rule structure designed to enhance quality of life according to its official website.
Organizers encourage interested parties to learn more about participating by visiting wastewiselane.org/ERC.
