EPA Invites you to Plug-in to eCycling!
Our ever-growing world relies on a constant changing supply of electronic, or e-products. Though electronic equipment currently represents only 1 to 2 percent of the US waste stream, it is quickly growing. As better, smaller, and cheaper products replace "older" models, the rapid introduction of new e-products (replacing older, sometimes larger, models) shows no sign of reduction. Electronics are a fast growing portion of America's trash: 250 million computers are destined to become obsolete by 2005. In 1998, more than 112 million pounds of materials were recovered from electronics - materials include steel, precious metals, glass, and plastic. Electronic products can also contain toxic constituents such as lead, mercury, and cadmium. Electronics can thus present an environmental hazard if they are disposed of improperly - such as in the landfill. (www.epa.gov)
Did You Know?
- Each year, more than 3.2 million tons of electronic waste is added to our landfills.
- Many computer owners discard their computers every 3 to 5 years.
- Only 11% of personal computers .retired. in the US in 2001 were recycled.
- Mobile phones will be discarded at a rate of 130 million per year by 2005.
Recycling your old electronics is smart and good for the environment!
For information on programs in your area, visit www.plugintorecycling.org