How to Start an E-Waste Recycling Business

E-waste is a type of refuse involving electronic devices and peripherals that are tossed into landfills. The Environmental Protection Agency projects that 2.5 million tons of e-waste was tossed out rather than recycled in 2007. Many consumers are unfamiliar with e-waste recycling, assuming that old TVs and computers need to be tossed out rather than disassembled for parts. Your e-waste recycling business will only work if you have the cooperation of the public as well as local and state licensing authorities.

Things You'll Need

• CRT crusher Delivery truck Goggles, masks and other safety equipment

Instructions

1. Purchase the best data-security tools on the market to reassure customers that files and personal information are completely wiped out. Research hard drive wiping tools that eliminate files containing account numbers, passwords and confidential files. Create a template for a certification of data security that acts as a receipt for your data-wiping services.

2. Obtain certification for e-waste recycling, hazardous waste handling and standard business operations from appropriate agencies. Contact your city's Public Works Department to learn about disposal methods and zoning requirements that must be met before opening for business.

3. Map out a disassembly line in your recycling facility as the first step in the e-waste handling process. Use a conveyor belt to move PCUs, monitors and TVs from the unloading area to the CRT crusher. Your assembly line will be tasked with removing plastic covers, metal bodies and wood paneling to break down e-waste to its internal elements.

4. Purchase a Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) crusher to handle glass and metal inside of computers and TVs. The CRT crusher implodes the tube, filters out broken glass and separates metals from glass into individual containers. Your business will need to find recyclers to take these materials to avoid keeping hazardous waste in your facility.

5. Apply higher fees for recycling e-waste that is oversized or shaped awkwardly. Write out a menu of e-waste products that you will accept from customers. Include a provision in your e-waste recycling pricing that says you reserve the right to charge more based on an onsite inspection.

6. Call local recyclers, computer refurbishers and other companies that may be interested in purchasing processed e-waste materials. Work out weekly and monthly deliveries to your contacts to earn some revenue while moving e-waste out of your facility. Target computer consultants and refurbishers who use PCU covers and cords to rebuild computers.

7. Sell USB cords, power cords, speakers and other accessories attached to e-waste that can be salvaged. Maintain a small space in your facility to handle orders from individuals and businesses in need of inexpensive supplies. Ask permission to resell these accessories from your customers without need for compensation.

Tips & Warnings

• Calculate fuel, vehicle and labor costs for e-waste pickup services to determine if it is a viable feature of your business. Assess the maximum distance from your facility to neighboring areas that allows your company to make a profit. Purchase a delivery van with ramp and built-in shelves to handle multiple pickups in a single trip.

• Follow state and federal regulations for recycling hazardous materials to protect your workers from injury. E-waste like keyboards and circuit boards contain lead, mercury and other harmful chemicals that must be handled with care in recycling facilities. Provide your employees with proper safety equipment as well as training on improper hazardous material handling before opening your facility.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• eRecycle
• Electronic Recyclers International Inc.
• eWaste.com