Tips and Quips

The following is an article submitted by Desert Arc to the Desert Sun regarding E-Waste.  I think you’ll find it interesting as well as a good resource for your future needs.

Desert Arc Recycling is a Division of Desert Arc, which is a nonprofit organization that concentrates on creating opportunities for people with disabilities, while helping protect the environment.  One facet of Desert Arc’s recycling services is dealing with E-Waste.  One objective is to keep e-waste from being shipped off to developing countries in Asia and Africa where unsophisticated disassembly methods expose workers to lead, mercury, and other chemicals that have been linked to a range of health problems.

What is E-Waste?  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 examples of e-waste.  Many of these products can be reused, refurbished, or recycled.

With the passage of the Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003, certain portions of electronic waste stream are defined and the systems to recover and recycle them will be administratively regulated beyond the universal waste rules that apply to material handling.

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.  For instance, California law currently views nonfunctioning CRTs (cathode ray tubes) from televisions and monitors as hazardous.

What Should I do with My Electronic Discards?  The mantra of “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” applies here:

1. Reduce your generation of e-waste through smart procurement and good maintenance
2. Reuse functioning electronic equipment by donating or selling it to someone who can still use it.
3. Recycle those products that cannot be repaired by finding an organization that will manage your electronics for recycling.

You guessed it (hah!), Desert Arc Recycling is just the sort of organization that will recycle your E-waste.  Contact Jackie Linares at 760-346-1611 ext. 124 or email her at recycling@desertarc.org  .  Their website is www.desertarcrecycling.com .   We have worked with Jackie and Desert Arc Recycling with our e-waste and other recycling needs from our office equipment to our construction remodeling projects.  She is personable as well as professional.  Give her a shout!  She’ll help with your e-waste recycling as well as other material recycling (cardboard, paper, plastic, etc.).  Their website is loaded with information on all their services.  Definitely worth checking out.