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Department of Ecology News Release - November 9, 2006
06-232
OLYMPIA - The Department of Ecology (Ecology) has adopted the first of two rules necessary to carry out the state's new electronic product recycling law, passed by the Legislature earlier this year. This is the first important milestone in launching a one-of-a-kind law requiring manufacturers to provide consumers free recycling of electronic products by Jan. 1, 2009.
"This new electronics recycling program is good for Washington, our businesses and our citizens," said Governor Chris Gregoire. "It is an important step forward in making Washington a healthy place to live and to put our market-based economy to work for the environment."
"We listened to citizens, businesses and stakeholders for their recommendations on thoughtful and practical ways to carry out this new law," said Cullen Stephenson, manager of Ecology's solid-waste program. "This service will be unique in the nation and we're proud to be making it a reality."
After Jan. 1 2007, consumers will see registered manufacturers' labels on specific consumer products: computers, monitors and televisions. Electronics manufacturers will be required to register before that date with Ecology and pay a fee to the department to cover the cost of administering the law, including registration, enforcement and planning. After that, only labeled products from registered manufacturers can be sold in Washington.
As part of the new rule, recycling companies that collect and transport the products turned in for recycling can begin registering with Ecology. They must be registered by Jan. 1, 2008.
While the new law is phased in, Washington residents are urged to call toll free 1-800-RECYCLE (800-732-9253) or go online to http://1800recycle.wa.gov for information on recyclers that accept electronics. Most services currently available do have a cost. Recycling electronic products keep toxic metals such as lead out of landfills and the environment. Electronic products contain heavy metals and other chemicals at hazardous levels that make them difficult to recycle or dispose of safely. For example, there is an estimated four to eight pounds of lead in every cathode ray picture tube. By recycling televisions and computers, Washington's citizens contribute to a safer, cleaner environment.
According to data, Washington averaged one television set per household in 1970. By 2010, it is estimated Washington will have one television set per person. In 1970, personal computers were unheard of. They were introduced in the early 1980s and started becoming affordable about a decade later. Ecology estimates approximately one computer per person statewide by 2010.
"These products represent a whole new waste stream with hazardous impacts on public health," said Stephenson. "Washington is ahead of the curve on managing this problem." Reducing toxic threats is one of Ecology's four priorities in the agency's four-year action plan. Ecology is working in partnership with the state Department of Health to reduce or eliminate those chemicals that pose significant health threats to protect the health of our citizens and our environment.
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Media Contacts:
Jay Shepard, Ecology solid waste program, 360-407-7040
Kathy Davis, public information officer, 360-407-6149
Copyright © Washington State Department of Ecology. See http://www.ecy.wa.gov/copyright.html.
