Licking County Recycling is launching its inaugural Television Collection and Recycling event in the new year, offering a way for residents to responsibly dispose of their outdated electronic behemoths. After the gift-giving season, when old TVs are often cast aside for the latest models, the need for proper recycling becomes critical, a sentiment echoed by the county's recycling director.
Andrea Krava, the director of Licking County Recycling, noted the timeliness of the event: "Televisions are a big Black Friday purchase and Christmas gift. We’re sure there are old televisions that new ones are replacing. And those old ones need a place to be recycled," she told Licking County Recycling. Residents, as opposed to businesses, will have the chance to bring their old television sets for recycling, with the logistical details released in advance.
Set to start on January 8, 2026, Licking County residents can bring their flat screens and CRT/Tube TVs to the Licking County Recycling office at 295 Wilson Street in Newark. However, there is a price to pay for parting ways with these electronic relics. Flat screens of any size can be recycled for $15, while CRT/Tube TVs up to 20 inches, and those up to 35 inches will carry a fee of $25 and $35, respectively. Krava explains that the fees cover the careful dismantling required for TVs, which contain hazardous materials such as lead and mercury. "Many people have questions about why it costs to recycle televisions. TVs have lead, mercury, and other hazardous materials inside them that require specialized disposal. Plus, it takes a lot of time to dismantle televisions to get to the recyclable parts," Krava said via Licking County Recycling.
The collection event will stretch over several days, accommodating residents' schedules. The dates and times are thorough: from the early morning of January 8 through January 16, 2026, with extended hours on the 14th and 15th. Interested parties should take note, only cash payments will be accepted for the recycling fees. The meticulous effort to ensure these old sets do not become hazardous waste, or worse, part of the ever-growing clutter in our landfills, is a testament to the county's commitment to the environment. For more information, Licking County Recycling can be reached at 740-670-5125 or via their website and social media pages.
