Best Management Practices for Electronic Waste
Electronic waste (e-waste) such as TVs, computers, printers, keyboards, and cell phones is a steadily growing component of the municipal solid waste stream in the United States. Because it contains heavy metals and organic pollutants, if not properly managed, e-waste can pose a long-term threat to the environment and public health. Therefore, cities and counties (municipalities) should divert e-waste from the solid waste stream.
Many municipalities already have programs for the proper disposal/recycling of other hazardous materials (e.g., household cleaners and paint). However, according to the Santa Clara County [California] Department of Environmental Health, the proper disposal/recycling of e-waste represents unique challenges because of its weight, volume, storage needs, and costs. Therefore, it commissioned “Best Management Practices for Electronic Waste,” a report to help municipalities develop an e-waste program.
The report was developed based on survey responses from local government program officers and was intended for use by California municipalities. However, many of the needs expressed by respondents are also present in other states. Sustainability Officers can use this report as a roadmap for the step-by-step development and implementation of an e-waste program. Topics include:
- Considerations in designing an e-waste program (e.g., e-waste handling hierarchy)
- Pros and cons of various collection models
- How to select an e-waste contractor
- Planning a one-day e-waste collection event
- Data collection and e-waste program evaluation
- Public education and outreach
- E-waste program operations
In addition, the report identifies issues and conditions important for policymaking (e.g., financing, end markets, illegal dumping, and regulatory issues).
The collection, reprocessing, marketing, and use of materials that were diverted or recovered from the solid waste stream.The overall flow of waste from consumers to a landfill, incinerator, or other disposal site.
