CRTs Classified as Universal Waste 

Cathode Ray Tubes (CRTs) classified as "Universal Waste"
In the Summer 2001 issue of CalMAX we reported that the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) reaffirmed that equipment containing cathode ray tubes (CRTs) cannot be disposed of in landfills. DTSC has now adopted emergency regulations that classify CRTs as "universal waste." While still prohibited from landfills, CRTs will be easier to manage with the new "universal waste" designation. The objective of the new regulations is to encourage reuse and recycling as well as encourage proper handling of CRT containing products. Computer monitors and televisions are the most common equipment with CRTs. The along with the text of the regulation is posted on DTSC web site If your organization handles CRTs you should review this information.

To find an organization that accepts electronics containing CRTs, start with this issue of CalMAX in the "electronics" category. You will find a number of listings under both "Wanted" and "Available." Another source of information is the "Electronics & Computers" list on the Board's reuse Web site. Your local recycling coordinator at your city or county may also have information on options for managing CRTs within your community. Check the government listings under "public works" or "solid waste."

The insert of this issue of CalMAX features the Recycling Market Development Zone (RMDZ) and loan programs at the CIWMB. The RMDZ program offers assistance to businesses interested in starting or expanding a recycling-based business. The RMDZs are geographic areas designated by the California Integrated Waste Management Board at the request of local governments. Currently there are 40 zones in California covering much of the state from the Oregon border to San Diego. The RMDZ program combines recycling with economic development to fuel new businesses, expand existing ones, and create jobs.

"The RMDZs are similar in structure to enterprise zones that promote economic development in designated areas, yet with a focus on recycling businesses in particular," notes Joyce Mason of the RMDZ program. In addition to receiving business development assistance, recycling-based manufacturers located in RMDZs are eligible to apply for low interest loans.

With the increase in electronic products available today and recent changes in CRT regulations, the demand for electronic product reuse and recycling services is growing statewide. "We have assisted businesses looking to expand their current electronics recycling activities and expect more interest in this area," says Mason. The CRT new regulations are expected to increase both awareness of the issue and interest by businesses to expand services for recovering electronics.

California, along with other western states, industry, and local governments, has joined the Western Electronic Product Stewardship Initiative (WEPSI). WEPSI has initiated multistakeholder dialogues throughout the western states bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, recyclers, nonprofit organizations, government, and consumers. Through this collaborative process participants are exploring product stewardship models, environmentally preferable purchasing, and collection infrastructure to address the growing issue of e-waste. For more information, visit the WEPSI Web site.

The Electronic Product Management Web site continues to expand with the latest information on the reuse and recycling of electronics. If your organization or community provides reuse or recycling services for electronics, please let us know and we will add the information to our Web site. Visit the site to learn more and find options for managing your electronic products.

Electronics Updates Home

Last updated: August 01, 2008