How to Dispose of Video Cassettes

Recycling centers are the best areas for disposing of old video cassettes.

Video cassettes contain plastic materials that are harmful to the environment. Defined as e-waste (electronic waste), video cassettes were once a popular household item for storing and recording information. However, since technology has evolved, the once popular item is now considered obsolete. Regardless, disposing of cassettes can be done at a local recycling center. With the help of a recycling center, users can prevent hazardous plastics from making it to a landfill.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic bags

Instructions

1. Gather all old video cassettes. Before discarding, ensure the tapes are no longer of value or have been transferred and stored using newer technology.

2. Open the top flap of the cassette. Pull and remove the cassette tape. Place the removed tape inside a plastic bag. Take the plastic cassettes and place them inside a separate bag.

3. Locate a recycling center nearby. Note the times the centers are open and what materials they help discard. See resources for links to finding centers nearby.

4. Bring the plastic cassettes and tapes to a recycling center to properly discard.

References

• California Department of Toxic Substance Control: Electronic Waste Information

Resources

• Earth 911: Finding a Recycling Center