Do Not Place in Garbage
Video games can leach harmful metals into the environment if not properly disposed of as e-waste.
Game Consoles Are Also E-Waste
Game consoles are e-waste. Though made of similar materials as video games, game consoles have different disposal options. Find out what to do with game consoles.
Alternative Ways to Recycle
Best Buy Game Trade-In
Trade in unwanted video games in exchange for a Best Buy gift card. Look up your game’s trade-in value here.
Nintendo Product Recycling
Nintendo offers a free take-back program for their hardware, software, accessories and chargers. They also accept video game consoles from customers who have purchased a Nintendo console. Find out more.
Electronics Recovery and Recycling Program
California passed the Electronics Recycling Act of 2003 to regulate how electronics are handled at the end of their life. Find out which organizations will take back unwanted or damaged electronics.
Ways to Reduce
Take Proper Care of Games
Handle games carefully and store them where they will stay clean and dry, away from dust, lint and moisture. Avoid touching the game connectors directly with your fingers and always check the edge connector for debris before inserting into a game system.
Not Working? Try Cleaning It
If your console is having a hard time reading your game, try cleaning both of them. Follow Nintendo’s instructions for cleaning game discs or instructions for cleaning a console. Using old school cartridges? Here’s how to safely clean those.
Buy Used Games
Instead of buying a new game, consider opting for a used game in good condition. When properly stored and well cared for, games can last for decades.
Download Games
Download games directly onto your gaming console from the console’s online store (such as the Nintendo online store, PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, etc.). For PCs, download games from online shops such as Steam or Epic Games.