The rapid pace of innovation in consumer electronics, combined with the desire of students to own the very latest computers, cell phones and music players, has created a fast-growing waste stream of old electronic equipment. Schools can take a leading role in helping to reduce this type of waste.

Many consumer electronics products contain hazardous materials, including lead, cadmium, chromium, mercury, beryllium, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and brominated flame retardants. All of these components are toxic, and keeping them out of conventional waste streams is very important.

School e-waste programs can include recycling of used cell phones for emergency phone use (see below), and the collection and recycling of old electronic equipment through manufacturer's programs or other local initiatives.


Resources:

The University of California (Davis) has a program for recycling e-waste using "Multi-bins." The multi bins, located at various locations on campus, accept batteries, CD’s, cell phones and inkjet cartridges. Used phones are sent to the Wireless Foundation in Washington D.C. and donated to victims of domestic violence as 911 emergency phones.

Earth 911 provides a fast and convenient way to find local services for recycling almost everything, including electronic equipment.