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Electrical cords / wires
Accepted at 4 locations
Electrical cords and wires are cables that contain conductive metals like copper or aluminum surrounded by plastic or rubber insulation, used to transmit electricity to appliances and electronic devices.
Source: epa.gov : Electronics Donation and Recycling | US EPA (1)
Electrical cords / wires Summary
Parent material: Electronics
Accepted Locations
Last updated on May 31, 2026 by Green Star GM

Deliver during operating hours
Do not bring large quantities without calling first.
Last updated on June 15, 2026 by Green Star GM

Last updated on July 3, 2026 by Green Star GM

Last updated on June 5, 2026 by Green Star GM
About Electrical cords / wires
What it is
Electrical cords and wires contain highly recyclable metals such as copper or aluminum, with insulating layers made of plastic or rubber around the wires that are not recyclable. The plastic coating on wires and cables is commonly made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). These items are considered e-waste and require specialized recycling rather than disposal in regular trash or curbside recycling.(2, 3, 5)
How it’s recycled
Wires are first sent through chopping machines that mechanically break down the wire into small pieces and remove the insulation from around the copper. The finely chopped material moves to a shaker table that shakes rapidly, separating the copper pieces from the insulation, with the heavier copper migrating to the higher end while the lighter insulation moves to the lower end. Items are then broken down into component materials such as precious metals, non-precious metals, and plastics that are made available to manufacturers.(3, 4)
How to prepare it
Common mistakes
Power cords and extension cords are classified as tanglers by recycling programs because they can jam sorting equipment, causing worker injuries and costly maintenance, so they should only be placed in recycling bins designed for electronics and e-waste. Never throw electrical cords or chargers in regular garbage bins.(2, 6)
Environmental impact
When exposed to extreme heat and environmental conditions in a landfill, the plastic coating can release harmful contaminants like lead and dioxins into the environment. The EPA estimates that recycling copper requires only 10-15% of the energy required to mine and refine virgin copper, saving energy and keeping valuable resources out of landfills. Recycling consumer electronics conserves natural resources and avoids air and water pollution.(1, 3, 5)
Did you know?
Copper conducts electric current better than any other metal except silver, and according to the Copper Development Association Inc., an average single family home contains 439 pounds of copper.(3)
Sources & additional reading
- Electronics Donation and Recycling | US EPA epa.gov
- Electrical Cords/Power Cords ocrecycleguide.com
- What Can You Do With Your Old Electrical Wires and Cables? - Earth911 earth911.com
- Recycling News: The Wire Recycling Process – Northern Montgomery County Recycling Commission northmontcorecycle.com
- Green Star of Interior Alaska-Electronics Recycling iagreenstar.org
- What to do With Old Cords and Chargers—Best Recycling Tips familyhandyman.com
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