What Is E-Waste or eCycling?

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 the Midwest Regional Electronic Waste Recycling Policy Initiative, 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.

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. 

E-Waste (Electronic Waste) according  to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is as follows:

“Consumer electronics such as TVs, computer equipment and DVD players contain toxic metals and chemicals. According to the EPA, Americans own nearly 3 billion electronics products.

These devices are safe to use every day in your house, but when thrown away, can release heavy metals and other chemicals under certain conditions in the environment. Protect yourself and the environment: keep them out of the trash.”

Minnesota Electronics Recycling Act uses a product stewardship approach, which means that manufacturers of certain electronics are responsible for financing and ensuring the recycling of these and other electronics within their state.  Many consumer electronics, including TV’s, printers, computers, computer monitors and VCRs, are covered under the MN Electronics Recycling Act.

The MPCA has special requirements for collectors and recyclers to ensure that electronics are handled and recycled in an environmentally responsible manner.  The MPCA maintains lists of registered collectors and recyclers on their website and Hughes Technologies Inc. can be found on both listings .

E-FAQs

Is "e-waste" clearly defined?
The term "e-waste" is loosely applied to consumer and business electronic equipment that is near or at the end of its useful life. There is no clear definition for e-waste; for instance whether or not items like microwave ovens and other similar "appliances" should be grouped into the category has not been established.

Is "e-waste" considered hazardous?
Certain components of some electronic products contain materials that render them hazardous, depending on their condition and density.

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 selling it to someone who can still use it. Recycle those components that cannot be repaired.

What You Can Do Now

 REDUCE PACKAGING:

• Look for products that have minimal packaging, or packaging that is recyclable, or contains recycled materials.
• Buy in bulk
• Instead of buying new wrapping paper , reuse paper or find creative ways to wrap presents.

AVOID USING DISPOSABLE CUPS:

• Use a refillable mug at coffee shops. Some companies will even give you a discount! Espresso Royale - $0.25 discount! Starbucks - $0.10 discount!
• *Use a refillable water bottle (like a SIGG) instead of plastic bottles
• Compared to PET disposable plastic, ceramic and glass cups reduce water pollution by 99% and solid waste by 86% and 88% respectively.
• Avoid using (and/or reusing) #1 and #7 plastics (number is on bottom of container). These bottles contain the harmful chemical BPA.

REDUCE ENERGY USE:

• Turn off appliances such as TVs, stereos, computer monitors and printers when you are not using them.
• Unplug your chargers! Chargers use energy even when nothing is plugged in.
• Turn off lights when you leave the room and take advantage of natural light as much as possible
• Look for the energy star on appliances
• Use florescent lightbulbs, but make sure you recycle them when they are done!

REDUCE PAPER:

• Print drafts on scrap paper
• Make double-sided copies
• Buy post-consumer recycled paper
• Stop junk mail! Request that organizations withhold from selling your name to others. Write to:

  Mail Preference Service
  Direct Marketing Association
  P.O. Box 9008
  Farmingdale, NY 11735

  Here's an example of how your request should read: 

  Please remove my name and address from your mailing lists.

  Name:
  Address:
  Signature:
  Date: