Electronics Recycling a Hit in Berks County

By Mike Trask, Reading Eagle, Pa.

Sep. 27–Berks County’s first electronics recycling event was a 156,000-pound success.

More than 1,600 motorists drove through the VF Outlet parking lot behind TGI Friday’s in Wyomissing on Friday and Saturday, each dropping off items such as used computers, televisions, microwaves and other bulky electronics items.

The stuff was collected by AERC Recycling Solutions, Allentown. The company dismantles the items to salvage the plastic, steel and metal they contain. Some of the appliances will be sent overseas to countries where computers and equipment are scarce.

Heather Ayache, account manager for AERC, said about 156,000 pounds, or 78 tons, of electronics was collected.

“It was nonstop from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.,” Ayache said.

The event, hosted by West Reading and Wyomissing, was open to anyone in Berks.

“The (state) Department of Environmental Protection told us we could expect 50 cars,” said Wyomissing Councilman Gerald B. Scribner, who helped organize the event. “To have had this many, it’s a real success.”

Cars began lining up 45 minutes before the event began Friday morning and a steady stream continued through the two days.

Most appliances were taken for $1; the fee for TVs was $5. Costs covered collection and hauling.

“Monitors and televisions were the most popular,” Ayache said of the items collected.

Scribner said he did not know if the boroughs would host the event again next year. He said he thinks the program should be countywide.

“The need is out there,” he said. “Our mission was to make people aware.”

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