ZooTampa at Lowry Park is once again stepping up for the planet! In honor of World Okapi Day, the zoo is inviting the community to join a massive e-waste recycling event this Saturday, October 18, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The event will be held at 1101 W Sligh Ave, and it’s an incredible opportunity to help protect wildlife, the environment, and the future of our planet—all while cleaning out your old electronics.
A Mission to Protect Wildlife and the Planet
If you’ve been searching for where to recycle electronics in Tampa, look no further. ZooTampa’s e-waste recycling drive provides a simple, eco-friendly way to dispose of old gadgets responsibly. By bringing your unwanted electronic devices to the zoo, you’re not just decluttering—you’re actively contributing to conservation and sustainability.
This initiative is part of ZooTampa’s ongoing mission to create a greener community. Through thoughtful programs like this, the zoo continues to raise awareness about how our daily choices directly impact wildlife and natural ecosystems.
For details about ZooTampa, visit the official website at zootampa.org and follow them on Instagram @zootampa and Facebook ZooTampa at Lowry Park.
Teaming Up With Urban E Recycling
To ensure every device is handled safely, ZooTampa has partnered once again with Urban E Recycling Inc., a certified local recycler based in Tampa. This collaboration guarantees that all collected electronics are processed properly, keeping toxic materials out of landfills and supporting environmental sustainability.
Urban E Recycling’s commitment to ethical recycling practices perfectly complements ZooTampa’s conservation goals, creating a partnership that benefits both the planet and its creatures. Together, they’re turning what many consider “waste” into valuable resources that reduce the demand for harmful mining practices.
How Recycling Electronics Helps Endangered Species
Recycling isn’t just about cleaning up—it’s about saving species. Many electronic devices contain coltan, a rare mineral mined in the rainforests of Central Africa. Unfortunately, this is also the natural habitat of okapis, chimpanzees, and gorillas.
By reusing coltan from recycled materials, we reduce the need for destructive mining operations that destroy wildlife habitats. In other words, that old smartphone sitting in your drawer could help protect endangered animals halfway across the world.
So, when you drop off your electronics at ZooTampa’s recycling drive, you’re doing much more than just helping the environment—you’re helping save lives.
What You Can Bring to the ZooTampa E-Waste Recycling Event
Guests are encouraged to bring their old cell phones, laptops, tablets, and other handheld devices. Each recycled item contributes to reducing waste, conserving resources, and preventing pollution.
Here’s a quick list of recyclable items accepted during the event:
- Computers (Desktop & Laptop)
- Hard Drives
- Monitors (Flat Screen Only)
- Printers
- Copiers
- Cell Phones / Mobile Phones
- Video Games / X-Boxes
- iPads & Tablets
- Batteries
These materials will be carefully handled by Urban E Recycling, ensuring every component is repurposed safely and effectively.
What Not to Bring
While the zoo welcomes many items, there are a few things that can’t be recycled during this event, including:
- Large Home Appliances
- Household Batteries
- CRT Monitors
- Televisions
- Paint, Varnish, or Other Chemicals
Please review the full list of acceptable and restricted items on ZooTampa’s official site before visiting.
Celebrate and Stay for World Okapi Day
This weekend’s recycling event also coincides with World Okapi Day, celebrating one of the most unique and mysterious animals on Earth—the okapi. Known as the “forest giraffe,” this beautiful creature depends heavily on rainforest conservation efforts supported by initiatives like this.
ZooTampa’s event combines education, action, and community spirit, making it one of the most meaningful local events in Tampa this month.
Don’t Miss “Creatures of the Night”
And while you’re planning your visit, don’t forget to return later this month for “Creatures of the Night”, one of Tampa’s best Halloween experiences. From spooky trails to dazzling lights, this annual event transforms the zoo into an unforgettable after-dark adventure.
It’s the perfect blend of fun and purpose—celebrating wildlife, sustainability, and community involvement.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Event
This ZooTampa e-waste recycling drive is more than just a drop-off—it’s a call to action. It’s a reminder that small steps, like recycling an old phone, can have a huge global impact. By participating, you become part of a movement that values both progress and preservation.
So, mark your calendars for Saturday, October 18, gather your old electronics, and head to ZooTampa at Lowry Park. Together, we can make Tampa a cleaner, greener, and more wildlife-friendly city.
When was the last time you turned trash into hope for endangered animals? Join ZooTampa this weekend and make your waste part of something wild.
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