Electronic Recycling Facts

In recent years, the increase in electronics consumption has led to problems as they become obsolete. Filled with toxic chemicals like cadmium, mercury and lead, electronics cannot be landfilled. Several states, the U.S. EPA, and many electronics manufacturers have taken on the challenge and offer practical solutions.

History

The U.S. EPA included electronics under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 as hazardous waste. This meant that electronics recyclers had to contend with many restrictions including how many devices could be stored at a time, what could be done with unrecyclable pieces, and how and where the devices could be transported.

Effects

The net result of the EPA's restrictions was a delay in the creation of comprehensive recycling centers. In 2003, states started amending their own RCRA regulations to remove barriers for recycling electronics--in particular, cathode-ray tubes found in televisions and computer monitors--in the hope that the EPA would follow suit. It finally did in 2005 for mercury-containing devices and in 2006 for cathode-ray tubes.

Types

The most frequently recycled electronics include cell phones, computer monitors, televisions and printers. Some recycling facilities accept computer peripherals such as keyboards, mice and speakers.

Considerations

JosefLehmkuhl on WikiMedia Commons

According to the National Center for Electronics Recycling, the following states ban electronics from landfills: Arkansas, Massachusetts, Minnesota and New Hampshire.

In addition, the following states have a recycling system in place: California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia. New York City has an electronics recycling requirement.

Prevention/Solution

Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development regulations are meant to ensure that electronics waste is not transported to developing nations. The intent is to keep water supplies, as well as the people who handle the waste and the environment, safe.

Benefits

Cleaning out your garage, attic or basement of old electronics not only gives you more space; it helps prevent toxic materials from getting into your house should a piece of equipment rust or break. If the device is still usable, remove any personal information and give it a new home through a charitable organization. Cell phone providers accept used cell phones for use by domestic violence relief organizations, for instance.

Resources

• My Green Electronics Recycling Information