Electronics Update Winter 2005

Electronics Update

The New Year brings a number of significant changes to the world of electronics reuse and recycling. The most important development is the implementation of the Electronic Waste Recycling Act. The Act established an advanced recycling fee on certain “covered electronic devices.” Covered electronic devices—those covered by the Act—include televisions and computer monitors containing a cathode ray tube (CRT), laptop computers, and LCD desktop computer monitors.

Consumers will notice the fee when purchasing a new CRT television, laptop, or CRT and LCD computer monitor. Retailers began collecting the fee from California consumers on January 1, 2005. The fee, ranging from $6 to $10, depends on the screen size of the device (see below). These fees are used to offset the cost of collecting and recycling televisions and monitors. That means that when you finally decide to relinquish your old television set—the one that has been in the garage for more years than you can remember—the cost should be significantly lower, if not free, at a local collection facility in your community.

Unlike the beverage container recycling program, you will not receive a “refund” when you recycle an old television or monitor. As the program progresses, and more recyclers and collectors participate in the program, additional opportunities for recycling electronic equipment will develop.

Another development is www.eRecycle.org, a new resource to help you find reuse and recycling organizations. This new website is designed to help consumers understand the Electronic Waste Recycling Fee and how they can properly manage their old electronic equipment. Electronic equipment manufacturers and retailers will find important information on new requirements that apply to their activities. Collectors and recyclers can find information about how to apply to participate in the new program and learn more about regulatory requirements for handling electronic waste.

With the implementation of the Electronic Waste Recycling Act, much attention is currently focused on recycling electronic equipment, yet many opportunities exist for reusing still functioning equipment. If your business is purchasing new equipment with faster, enhanced features, consider trading in or donating your "old" equipment. Past issues of CalMAX have featured organizations such as Computers for Classrooms and the Alameda County Computer Resource Center. These and other organizations, including L.A. Shares in Los Angeles, are listed in the Electronic Product Management Directory accessible through www.eRecycle.org. Many of these reuse organizations are nonprofit organizations that place refurbished electronic equipment with schools, groups, and individuals that are not able to purchase new equipment. Depending on your location and the amount of equipment, some organizations will pick up the equipment at your business.

Electronics Updates Home

Last updated: August 01, 2008