Government Regulations
State and Federal enviromental agencies have determined that certain non-working
and obsolete electronic products must be treated as hazardous waste if intended for disposal. Monitors and terminals
contain 4 to 8 pounds of lead,and fail the TCLP test for toxicity. Circuit boards in electronic products contain lead solder,
mercury, and cadium. These items should be disposed of in an enviromentally sound manner.
The key points of most state and federal regulations are:
- All non-working and obsolete computer products should be disposed of in an
enviromentally sound manner.
- Monitors and terminals are always a hazardous waste.
- Other components of a computer system (e.g., circuit boards, keyboards, mice,
printers) could be hazardous depending on their lead, mercury, or cadium content.
- The recycling facility must be on file with the DEC.
- The generator continues to be responsible for the product improperly
disposed of through non-recycling channels.
- Storage for over 90-180 days may be in violation.
- Substantial penalties may apply for non-compliance.
