16
Computer Recovery Project Developing a Network Developing a Network For Change For Change Product Stewardship and Electronics Recycling
Computer Recovery Project
Developing a Network For Developing a Network For ChangeChange
Product Stewardship and Electronics Recycling
The Problem In 1999, tests were
done on cathode ray tubes (CRTs) in monitors.
Determined most contain lead in quantities that designate as a hazardous waste.
Illustration Courtesy Seattle Public Utilities
The Problem
Most monitors were being disposed in the garbage.
Shortage of reuse and recycling options for used electronics in King County
No local infrastructure for recycling broken computer monitors for residents and small businesses.
Project Goals
Follow Product Stewardship Principles Share the responsibility for the
management of used electronics equipment among industry, government and consumers.
Promote product stewardship through technical assistance, education, market development, and coordination.
Pilot Project
King County organized a network of businesses and organizations that agreed to accept used computer equipment for reuse and/or recycling.
Total Reclaim expanded their recycling services to take computer monitors.
July - October 2000
Repair, Resale, Recycling
The Network
The Network
Charity Organizations
Pilot Project
34 locations participated in the pilot project.
14 locations agreed to accept broken monitors.
Public brought used equipment to collection sites.
Customers were charged a $10 fee to recycle broken monitors.
Collection
Total Reclaim collected broken monitors from network members.
Disassembly
Monitors were dismantled into glass, plastic and metal parts.
CRTs transported to smelter or glass-to-glass recycling facility.
Publicity
Newspaper and television coverage
Paid radio ads Newsletters and
trade journals Brochures,
posters, website, phone line
King County publicized the network.
Program Materials
Brochures distributed by 80 computer retail stores and public agencies.
Pilot Project Results
Government organized project, provided technical assistance and promoted network services.
Industry provided collection sites and recycling services.
Retailers publicized the program. Consumers paid recycling fee.
Shared Responsibility
Pilot Project Results
6,200 broken monitors were recycled. Network members elected to continue providing services.
Computer Recovery Project
Ongoing Program: Jan 2001 - Dec 2002 Recruit new members Annual renewal - sign Agreement with
program participants identifying roles and responsibilities.
Reprint brochure with new listings. Continue program promotion.
Computer Recovery Project
Lisa SepanskiKing County Solid Waste Division
201 S. Jackson St.Seattle, WA 98104
