Electronic Recycling F.A.Q.'s
Why can't I just throw my obsolete computers away?
The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) prohibits the improper disposal of obsolete computer equipment because they contain characteristically hazardous constituents such as lead. Improper handling or disposal can result in fines and other civil penalties, in addition to tarnishing your company's image.
Why do obsolete computers pose environmental problems?
Electronic Equipment contains significant quantities of hazardous materials, including lead and cadmium. If computers are disposed of in solid waste landfills, these materials will leach out and contaminate our environment. Electronic Equipment represents more than 2% of the municipal solid waste stream. This number is expected to more than double in the next few years.
How big is the problem of e-waste?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported that an estimated 20 million computers became obsolete in 1998. The useful life of a computer is now only 3 to 5 years and shrinking. It has been estimated by the National Safety Council that over 400 million computers will be abandoned in 2004 and may grow by 30% over the next few years. To date only about 10% of these are actually recycled. The rest will either be land filled or packed in ocean containers and shipped overseas where the rules of recycling and proper management do not apply.
In many states, electronics have been classified as Universal Waste. What does this mean?
The Universal Waste designation is for recyclable materials with hazardous components that are commonly generated by a broad spectrum of generators including businesses, institutions, and homeowners. The Federal EPA currently lists batteries, fluorescent lamps, and mercury thermostats under the Universal Waste classification. All states are required to adopt the Universal Waste Rule and may add others items to their list. Many states have added or are considering adding used electronics to their list. Regulations on Universal Waste state that either the listed materials must be disposed of as manifested hazardous waste or must be recycled in an approved recycling program. CRT Processing offers transportation and recycling services in accordance with all federal and local legislation.
What does CRT Processing do with my old electronics?
When we receive your obsolete equipment it is sorted to determine the proper processing protocols. Equipment meeting specific requirements may be tested to determine whether they can be repaired and sold as a refurbished unit. Electronic equipment that is too outdated to be of any use is de-manufactured and basic components are removed and classified according to the type and composition. Hazardous components are handled under strict environmental guidelines and procedures.
What types of electronics equipment will CRT Processing take?
Types of Electronic Equipment include:
Monitors
Laptops
Printers
Keyboards
UPS
Photocopiers
Zip drives
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Televisions
Server
Scanners
Terminals
Typewriters
Cell Phones
Cash Registers
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Desktop or Tower Computers
Macintosh Computers with Screen
Docking Stations
Mainframes
Fax Machines
Pagers
Telephone Systems
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Ok, so I want to send my electronics to CRT Processing. How should I package it?
CPU's
CPU's are best shipped on pallets, stacked up to 5 feet tall. Start with a sheet of cardboard and then layer the CPU's alternating with sheets of cardboard in between each row. Pallets should be wrapped in stretch wrap to prevent movement during shipping. (45- 50 CPU's)
Computer Monitors
Smaller (14" & 15") monitors should be laid screen side down on a pallet. Most pallets can hold 3 rows of 3, for a total of 9 monitors per layer. On top of each layer of monitors place a sheet of cardboard and build 3 more rows of 3. We suggest no more than four layers of monitors should be stacked on one pallet. Pallets should be wrapped in stretch wrap to prevent movement during shipping.
Larger (17" +) monitors are done in the same manner, however usually only 2 rows of 3 will fit on a standard pallet per layer.
Cathode Ray Tubes (CRT’s)
For bare CRT’s we suggest utilizing a Gaylord box for proper collection. CRT’s should be nestled in the box with care given to prevent breakage. Do not throw, toss, or drop CRT’s into the box. Gaylord boxes must be on pallets, sturdy, and CRT’s should not be stacked higher than the sides of the box.
Printers and Miscellaneous Equipment
For printers, keyboards, drives, mice, circuit boards, etc., we suggest utilizing a Gaylord box for collection. If possible, collect like items in individual boxes. Do not throw, toss, or drop the equipment into boxes. Gaylord boxes must be on pallets, sturdy, and optimally sized at 48" x 40”. The highest equipment stacked in the box should be no higher than the sides of the box itself. When full, cover with cardboard or shrink wrap the top of the box.
Can CRT Processing Provide Transportation?
CRT Processing can provide transportation services for full truckload and less-than truckload quantities. Our network of approved transporters can provide cost effective transportation for our customers, usually in 48 hours.
How will regulators know that businesses are not complying with environmental regulations?
Often, employees, customers, contractors or community members will report environmental violations. Also, old computers and electronic devices that are disposed into landfills attract attention. Serial numbers and labels on improperly disposed equipment can be traced.
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