Electronics
E-Scrap
Although it may not seem obvious, electronic scrap (e-scrap) is in fact hazardous to both human and environmental health. The rapid advances in computer technology mean that we as consumers are continually upgrading and increasingly discarding. E-scrap not only takes up space in landfills, but it is a major source of toxic chemicals like lead, mercury, cadmium, zinc, beryllium, nickel, and brominated flame retardants, all of which can leach into the environment and our bodies.
What to do with E-Scrap
“E-scrap” is a loosely defined term that generally includes:
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Computers and their peripheral equipment
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Televisions
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VCRs and DVD players
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Radios and stereo equipment
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Photocopiers
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Fax machines
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Cell phones
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Video games
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Video cameras
Planned obsolescence and the rapid advancements in technology caught us off-guard in terms of waste management and electronics make up a rising percentage of the solid waste stream.
To minimize your impact on the environment, first REDUCE the amount of electronics you use and discard by upgrading your computer instead of buying a new one. Research manufacturers who practice product stewardship. When consumers demand through their purchasing power that companies be environmentally responsible, they can change the face of the market!
Read the Guide to Environmentally Preferable Computer Purchasing provided by the Northwest Product Stewardship Council.
Donate Computers
DONATE computers and cell phones to not-for-profit charities and get a tax deduction. The following is a list of national Electronics Donation Programs:
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MyGreenElectronics. Use a zip code search to find recycling opportunities where you live
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Electronic Industries Alliance's eCycling Central. Use the interactive US map to find reuse, donation, and recycling programs in your state
Selecting an Electronics Recycling Service
PURPOSE
This downloadable survey is designed to aid local governments, institutions, organizations, and businesses in the initial evaluation of an electronics recycler. It will guide you in answering some basic questions about an electronics recycler you may be considering.
SELECTING AN ELECTRONICS RECYCLING SERVICE
The resource is organized as a series of questions on recycler operations and management practices so that you can make an initial selection of a recycler, according to the best fit for your facility’s individual needs and environmental concerns. The Federal Electronics Challenge has an additional resource to help perform more in-depth, onsite reviews of electronics recyclers, available online at Federal Electronics Challenge.
Please note that this survey is not meant to substitute or override Federal, state, or local laws and regulations.
This survey can be used to assess a variety of recycling facilities:
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Collection/hauler: Collects computers and televisions (TVs) and transports them to another business for repair, reuse or recycling; usually works under contract with another business.
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Repair Shop: Repairs computers and TVs for resale and removes operational and valuable components for resale to the highest level of reuse. They may dispose of components and equipment that do not have reuse or resale value.
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Electronic Demanufacturer: Demanufactures electronics for reusable and operational components and for scrap value; includes for-profit or not-forprofit facilities.
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Private Asset Recovery Operation: Specializes in providing the highest return on discarded computer equipment, usually from large-scale businesses. May also engage in demanufacturing and/or cathode ray tube (CRT) processing.
Electronics-Survey-1.pdf
