Durable Goods Disposal Calculator: U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The EPA created this Durable Goods Disposal Calculator to help users make informed decisions about the greenhouse gas (GHG) and energy impact they have. The calculator estimates GHG emissions benefits in Metric Tons Carbon Equivalent (MTCE) and energy savings in Millions British Thermal Units (MMBtu) for recycling, landfilling and combustion of 14 typical household durable goods (refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, gas and electric stoves/ovens, washers and dryers, televisions, VCRs, microwaves, carpets, cars, tires, and computers). There are further conversions into easily understood units — e.g. gallons of gasoline not burned.

The GHG emissions and energy factors in the calculator were developed using a life-cycle assessment methodology consistent with international GHG accounting standards.  The calculator computes GHG emissions and energy consumption related to disposal activities using analyses of baseline and alternative disposal scenarios. For example, the tool can estimate the GHG emissions and energy benefits of disposing of appliances with varying percentages being recycled, combusted or landfilled. The Calculator estimates GHG emissions benefits in Metric Tons Carbon Equivalent (MTCE) and energy savings in Million British Thermal Units (MMBtu) for recycling, landfilling and combustion of 14 typical durable goods.
 
This tool will be useful for advanced sustainability officers looking to estimate the benefits of implementing a bulk electronics and appliance waste collection event or program. The calculator’s estimates also support GHG measurement and provide quantitative data for reporting initiatives.
 

Have a useful life of 2 years or more and are replaced infrequently or may require capital program expenditures. Examples include furniture, office equipment, appliances, external power adapters, televisions, and audiovisual equipment.The collection, reprocessing, marketing, and use of materials that were diverted or recovered from the solid waste stream.Greenhouse gases are a part of the Earth's atmosphere and are both naturally occurring and the result of human chemical processes. The most common greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide, water vapor, methane, nitrous oxide, ozone, and chlorofluourocarbons. These gases trap heat and thus contribute to the warming of the planet. See also CFCS and GREENHOUSE EFFECT.The ratio of useful energy output from the water heater to the total amount of energy delivered to the water heater. The higher the EF is, the more efficient the water heater.The ability or potential of a physical body to do work. The most common forms of energy are heat, light, mechanical (moving parts), and electrical.

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