COUNCIL is hoping to collect three tonnes of electronic waste for recycling during a collection drive for the island communities in February.
Residents will be able to hand in things like old TVs, computers, phones and appliances to the waste and recycling centres on Coochiemudlo, Macleay, Russell and North Stradbroke islands between February 7 and 22.
On the weekend of February 13 and 14, the first 25 residents at each of the four island recycling and waste centres can swap their e-waste for a free native plant, courtesy of Redlands IndigiScapes Centre.
There is a limit of one tree per household.
E-waste contains valuable materials like glass, copper, plastics and precious metals, and will be processed and used to make new products.
Australian households generate about 73 kilograms of e-waste per year and an estimated 80 per cent is sent to landfill.
Mayor Karen Williams said e-waste was one of the fastest growing types of waste worldwide and most could be recycled.
"Our mainland recycling and waste centres offer a full-time collection service where e-waste is recycled, and now this special collection will give our island residents the opportunity to thoughtfully dispose of unwanted e-waste items in their homes," she said.
"(This) supports not only Council's commitment to a circular economy but the State Government's goal of a zero waste to landfill future."
In a similar collection last year, island residents dropped off more than two tonnes of e-waste.
"We are hoping to increase that amount to three tonnes this year," Cr Williams said.
"As an incentive, we are also offering 100 free native plants in exchange for e-waste on the weekend of 13 and 14 February."
Electronic waste includes:
- Televisions and sound systems
- Computer equipment and printers
- Mobile phones
- Power drills, fans and vacuums
- Small kitchen and bathroom appliances
Large whitegoods like refrigerators and washing machines can be delivered to recycling and waste centres as scrap metal during normal opening hours.
Island businesses can deliver household equivalent amounts of e-waste at no charge and can contact council for advice if they have larger amounts to dispose of.
Island recycling and waste centres locations
Coochiemudlo Island, Elizabeth Street: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10am to 12pm. Saturday and Sunday 10am to 2pm.
Macleay Island, Eastern Road: Monday to Friday 8am to 2pm. Saturday and Sunday 8am to 4pm.
Russell Island, Davidson Road: Monday to Friday 8am to 2pm. Saturday and Sunday 8am to 4pm.
North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), Dickson Way: Monday to Friday 8am to 2pm. Saturday and Sunday 7.30am to 3pm.