How to Recycle Your Audio and Music Gear

If you’ve been making music for any amount of time, someone has probably asked you the most annoying question in the world: “Why do you have so much junk?” To which you always answer, “My gear’s not junk!” And you’re right! But just because it isn’t “junk” doesn’t mean today might not be the perfect day to clean house and make some room.
Today is Earth Day. That makes it a good day to simultaneously save the planet and make your spouse, roommates, bandmates, etc., happy by recycling gear that has reached the end of its usefulness to you.
How and Why to Recycle Music Gear
The components inside your music and audio gear are made of heavy metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium. If you put them in the trash, they’ll end up at a dump. As they decompose, rainwater washes those heavy metals into local water supplies. According to the EPA, “Donating or recycling consumer electronics conserves our natural resources and avoids air and water pollution, as well as greenhouse gas emissions that are caused by manufacturing virgin materials.” So not only does recycling our old electronics keep our water cleaner, but it’s also the law in 25 states, according to a Consumer Reports article from April 2018.
The best resource on the Internet to find out how and where to recycle your music and audio gear is on the E-cycling Central page presented by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA). It really couldn’t be easier: click your state on the map to see a list of all the organizations and programs that accept electronic recycling and their locations. Some specialize in certain types of electronics, so make sure you check the organization’s website for a list of what they’ll accept, or simply give them a call. Each recycling program’s contact information is available when you click the program name.
Can I Donate It?
Yes! If your gear still works, donating it is a great option. Not only do you get the satisfaction of passing along your once-loved gear, but you also may get a nice tax deduction. Even better, you can trade in computers, cell phones, and other household electronics for gift cards or in-store credit at a number of large retailers.
Here are a few retailers that offer recycling or trade-in programs.

Apple GiveBack Program
Microsoft End-of-life Management Program
Walmart Electronics Trade-in Program
Amazon Trade-in Program

Pro Tip: Make sure you read the fine print. Most of these programs will consider audio gear “household electronics.”
Can I Sell It?
Yes, you can! If your gear still has plenty of life left, sell it! Sweetwater’s Marketplace is totally free, and unlike other person-to-person marketplaces, there’s no commission or selling fee. It’s the perfect place to sell your used gear. And if you’re feeling good about selling the gear you no longer use and have a list of gear that will enhance your career or recordings, then take a look at our site for ideas, or give your Sweetwater Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700.
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