Whether it's viable depends on the rules. Here in the USA, a number of
states require a deposit (usually five cents) on beverage containers.
That deposit is typically far more than the intrinsic worth of the
metal, glass or plasti in the container, but that's not the point.
Instead, the deposit makes it worthwhile to collect and recycle the
containers, keeping them out of the trash stream and reducing litter.
Why couldn't there be such a deposit on electronics?
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In the Netherlands and other EU countries all electrical goods are
subjected to a 'prepaid removal fee' This variable fee is payable on
purchase ,be it an electric toothbrush ,a microwave oven or a TV set
,computer ,printer etc. It means that upon disposal the unit can be
taken to any retailer who is obliged to dispose of the equipment in a
responsible way(recycle yard)

Also spent alkaline,Nicad,NiMH ,any type of battery can be put in a
container at any retailer including supermarkets who are selling these
batteries , even if you do not intend to buy batteries at that time.

In the UK they are lagging behind with these measures.

Frank GM0CSZ / KN6WH