Minnesota was one of the early adopters of e-waste legislation, passing its law in 2007 to require manufacturers of video display devices to register and help fund electronics recycling. The state’s program promotes shared responsibility between manufacturers, local governments, and recyclers. While Minnesota does not have a formal landfill ban, most counties provide permanent drop-off sites or hold events where consumers can recycle electronics for free or a small fee. Manufacturers must meet annual recycling targets based on the weight of their sales.
Program Name: Minnesota Electronics Recycling Act
Year Implemented: 2007
Is Producer Responsibility Required? Yes
Covered Products:
Televisions
Computer monitors
Laptops and desktops with screens ≥ 7″
E-readers and portable media players (if designed for video display)
Who Can Recycle:
Households
K–12 public schools
Landfill Ban? No – disposal discouraged and often restricted by local ordinances
Key Manufacturer Requirements:
Register annually with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA)
Pay a registration fee
Meet weight-based recycling obligations
Submit annual reports detailing recycling efforts
Program Website: https://www.pca.state.mn.us/business-with-us/electronics-collection-and-recycling
