The 2026 Electronics Recycling Competition is ending soon, but there is still time for schools to join the effort and make a difference before April 24.
The competition—a joint effort between Lane County schools, NextStep Recycling, and Waste Wise Lane County, a part of Lane County Waste Management—officially started on January 6 and will conclude on April 24, during Earth Week.
Schools that recycle the most “e-waste” will win grants of up to $500 from Lane County Waste Management, a NextStep Reuse Store gift certificate, and a special recognition award.
While NextStep Recycling will pick up most electronics from schools via truck, anyone can also donate directly by bringing their electronics to the nonprofit’s donation center.
“Teachers, administrators, students, parents, or anyone wanting to support a school can drop off electronics at the NextStep Donation Center at any time during the competition,” said NextStep Recycling Executive Director Jessica Ahrenholtz. “When dropping off electronics, let NextStep staff know the name of the school you wish to support. This ensures the school receives proper weight credit, which increases its chances of winning prizes and recognition. Every contribution counts!”
Eligible e-waste includes microwaves, TVs, printers, cords, cables, cell phones, computers, computer accessories (monitors, keyboards, mice, computer speakers, etc., whether in working condition or not), tablets, old or broken game consoles, remotes, and AV equipment (i.e., stereos, speakers, DVD players, etc.). But no plastic, non-electronic items (i.e., toys, vacuums, etc.).
During the 2025 competition, a record 48 schools collected 41,491 lbs. of e-waste. School totals for 2026 will be available by late May.
Learn more at wastewiselane.org/ERC.
About Waste Wise Lane County
Waste Wise Lane County—a part of Lane County Waste Management—offers education, tools, and resources that residents, schools, and businesses can use to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live more sustainably. Learn more at lanecountyor.gov/wastewise.
About NextStep Recycling
NextStep Recycling offers education, job training, and placement programs for youth graduating foster care, adults with disabilities, seniors, families leaving domestically violent relationships, migrant worker family members, and underfunded schools and nonprofits. Its mission is to provide technology and training to children and adults with barriers to employment and education while protecting the environment and community from hazardous waste. The NextStep Donation Center is located at 245 Jackson Street, Eugene. Learn more at nextsteprecycling.org.