15,727 lbs. of techno-waste waiting to be transported on pallets to a recycling facility in New Jersey.
The official weigh-in has been recorded, and ORAU’s annual employee Earth Day recycling event set a record this year, diverting more than 10 tons of recyclables from area landfills. In all, employees collected 22,195 lbs. during the two-day event. The tech collection was transported on pallets to a recycling facility in New Jersey, and the total was just announced.
That total includes 185 lbs. of unneeded medication, 4,940 lbs. of personal documents for shredding, 967 lbs. of donations, 376 lbs. of cardboard, and 15,727 lbs. of techno-waste, which is electronic recyclables like old computers, phones, TVs, LED light bulbs and batteries. Many such products contain hazardous materials including lead and mercury; if improperly disposed, these substances can leach into the soil and groundwater and pose risks to human and wildlife health.
This event started in 2010 as an opportunity for ORAU employees to responsibly get rid of personal techno-trash in honor of Earth Day. Fifteen years later, it has grown to become an occasion every year for those employees to do some spring cleaning at home and donate to worthy causes. Through the event, ORAU partners with the Holiday Bureau and Ecumenical Storehouse for lightly used items that can be reused. The Michael Dunn Center provides shredding services, and ASAP of Anderson County assists with the drug takeback.
From the collection site in Oak Ridge, ORAU partners with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) contractor with a Responsible Recycling (R2) certification to ensure proper disposal of the techno waste. R2 certification is recognized globally and involves rigorous third-party audits to ensure compliance with strict standards.
“Our previous record was about 14,000 pounds collected, so we’re thrilled that we nearly hit 22,000 pounds this year. We also had more employees participate than ever before—and that means more ORAU staff are using this opportunity to conscientiously dispose of personal items,” said Jennifer Clary, an event organizer. “As a company, ORAU is on a mission to be good stewards, and we have built-in processes to ensure that we are. But it’s really encouraging to see employees carry that mantle personally apart from what’s required during work hours.”
This event demonstrates that ORAU is deeply committed to ISO 14001 and DOE-VPP. ORAU’s annual Earth Day event not only supports company values, but it also empowers employees to make a meaningful impact in the community.
Watch this highlight reel from the 2025 Earth Day Recycling event at ORAU!
The Holiday Bureau, founded in 1945, is a nonprofit organization which helps low-income families in Anderson County provide memorable holiday experiences. They accept donations of decorations, toys, clothing and more, working year-round to provide for local families. The organization is completely volunteer-run, and volunteers wash and clean all donations themselves, even painting and refurbishing items when needed.
The Ecumenical Storehouse was established in 1984 and is a volunteer-run organization which accepts, stores and distributes household goods needed to set up small living quarters to benefit those whose homes have been displaced through personal tragedy or other emergencies. The Storehouse serves Anderson, Roane, Campbell, Morgan and Scott Counties, and beyond.
For more than 50 years, the Michael Dunn Center in Roane County, Tennessee, has been dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through a wide range of services, including education, employment opportunities, residential support and day programs, the center empowers people to achieve greater independence and inclusion within their communities. With a mission rooted in compassion and advocacy, the Michael Dunn Center strives to create a supportive environment where every person can reach their full potential.
ASAP of Anderson County is a nonprofit organization established in 2008 to prevent and reduce substance misuse within the community. Through education, advocacy and collaboration, ASAP works to empower individuals, families and local organizations to make informed decisions and build a healthier, drug-free environment. By fostering partnerships and implementing evidence-based strategies, ASAP aims to create lasting positive change and strengthen the resilience of Anderson County residents.