Washington State Department of Ecology

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Recommendation MRW4:  Develop an electronics product stewardship infrastructure

Representatives from local government, Ecology, and environmental organizations should continue to work with the electronics industry on a comprehensive product stewardship system for electronic products. It is also essential to build awareness of the hazards inherent in electronic products and wastes. With consultation from the State Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC) and others, Ecology will research and develop recommendations to the state legislature for an electronic product collection, recycling, and reuse program (pursuant to ESHB 2488, adopted in 2004). This electronics infrastructure needs to include:
  1. Accessible and effective take-back systems for electronic products.

    2. Related Milestone

    Industry has established a nationally based, effective product stewardship program for electronic products.
  2. Electronics recycling that does not harm human health or the environment.

    3. Related Milestones

    Sales of mercury-containing consumer retail products have significantly decreased in the state.
    A statewide strategy has been agreed to and is undergoing implementation to reduce threats posed by polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) used as flame-retardants.
  3. Product re-design to eliminate hazardous components, ease disassembly and recycling, and lengthen life-span.

    4. Related Milestone

    Industry has established a nationally based, effective product stewardship program for electronic products.
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