Electronic waste has increased substantially over the last couple of decades. As technology grows at a quicker pace than ever before, more and more electronics are ending up in our landfills. Toxins from these electronics can run into waters systems poisoning the water we drink. Recycling of electronic equipment will not only reduce waste in our landfills, but also minimize use of natural resources and reuse of already existent materials.
As of today the Federal government requires that companies producing over 220 pounds of electronic waste tested hazardous be disposed of in proper manners. There are currently no federal regulations for organizations producing less than 220 pounds of hazardous electronic waste, however many states have become more stringent in the proper disposal of E-waste for both businesses and households.
State Legislated Recycling Laws >
As a Consumer Why Should I Recycle?
Most electronic consumers in the United States do not realize the impact of e-waste on the local and world environments; they simply view their obsolete electronics as trash. If these same individuals and organizational consumers understood that recycling these devices was as simple as separating their newspapers, aluminum cans and plastic bottles for processing each week, think of how much cleaner our world could be!
Each year an estimated 750,000 of the 15 million personal computers that become obsolete will end up in landfills. One color monitor alone can contain four to eight pounds of lead and measurable amounts of cadmium, mercury and other toxic metals. At AMIT, EVERY PART of your electronic assets is recycled. Each item is strategically and securely dismantled. All toxic elements are responsibly disposed of, and all remaining metals, plastics, glass and circuitry is processed.
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How Will Recycling My Obsolete Computer and/or Electronic Equipment Make a Difference?
It is estimated that of the approximately 201million tons of solid waste generated annually in the United States, at least one percent is classified as computer and/or electronic equipment. Of this nearly 2.1 million tons, only an estimated 134,000 tons is actually recycled. Even though E-waste accounts for a small percentage of all municipal waste, it still accounts for about 70% of heavy metals ending up in our landfills.
