Setting the Global Standard....

E-waste is a popular, informal name for electronic products nearing the end of their "useful life." Computers, televisions, VCRs, stereos, copiers, and fax machines are common electronic products. Many of these products can be reused, refurbished, or recycled. Unfortunately, electronic discards is one of the fastest growing segments of our nation's waste stream. With the passage of SB 20, the Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003, certain portions of the electronic waste stream are defined and the systems to recover and recycle them will be administratively regulated beyond the universal waste rules that now apply to material handling. Please review the  SB 20 for more information. In addition, some researchers estimate that nearly 75 percent of old electronics are in storage, in part because of the uncertainty of how to manage the materials. Combine this with increasing advances in technology and new products headed towards the market and it is no wonder that "e-waste" is a popular topic.

Is "e-waste" considered hazardous?

Discarded electronic equipment is identified as hazardous waste under Federal and State law. E-waste contains toxic substances associated with a range of adverse human health conditions, including effects on the nervous system, reproductive and developmental problems, cancer, and genetic impacts.
Electronics devices contain lead, mercury and other highly toxic substances that leach into the environment, gather in the body, and pose significant risk to humans and ecosystems. E-waste already constitutes 2% to 5% of the US municipal solid waste stream and is rising by 3% to 5% per year. Lead, mercury, cadmium, and polybrominated flame retardants are all persistent, bioaccumulative toxins (PBTs) that create environmental and health risks when computers are manufactured, incinerated, landfilled, or melted down during recycling.

Can’t I just throw my obsolete computers away?

What should I do with my electronic discards?

The mantra of "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle" applies here. Reduce your generation of e-waste through smart procurement and good maintenance.  Reuse still functioning electronic equipment by donating or contact Global to recycle those components that cannot be repaired.