IN the past five weeks, Canberrans have dumped an estimated 850 tonnes of televisions and computers for recycling at the Mitchell and Mugga Lane Transfer Stations.

The amount has already exceeded the amount of recycled televisions and computers for the entire 2010-11 financial year, which totalled 795 tonnes.

Chief Minister Katy Gallagher said with the recent switchover from analogue to digital televisions, it is expected that Canberrans will continue to utilise the free e-waste recycling service.

“More e-waste collection sites in the ACT are expected in the future once these have been determined by other service providers. Having multiple providers in the marketplace is expected to lead to more options for the community on how they dispose of their unwanted televisions and computers,” she said.

“Provision of the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme in the ACT, and eventually across Australia, will boost recycling rates for televisions and computers and provide a long-term solution to e-waste,” the Chief Minister said.

National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme started on May15, and since its introduction, about 25 tonnes of e-waste has been received on average per day.

Details about free e-waste recycling in the ACT is available at www.tams.act.gov.au