Return to Vendor Policies: A Solution for Obsolete Computer Equipment
This brief provides a summary of two policy strategies for reducing electronic and appliance waste:
- Take-back contract provisions which require vendors to take physical and/or financial responsibility for sustainable disposal methods
- Equipment leasing which allows for the return of equipment at the end of the contract period
While equipment leasing is well-known and widely used, take-back policies are relatively recent initiatives. Although take-back policies are pursued most popularly in the electronics industry, it is important to recognize that they can be applied to other industries as well. Carpets, cars, appliances, furniture, and almost anything durable can have similar service options for consumers and material recovery requirements of industry.
