State to expand program to recycle electronics

PROVIDENCE – A new state law will expand Rhode Island’s system for collecting and disposing of old computers, televisions and other electronics, giving manufacturers responsibility for their discarded equipment.
The “Electronic Waste Prevention, Reuse and Recycling Act” (2008 S 2631 A), sponsored by Sen. V. Susan Sosnowski (D-South Kingstown) and Rep. Arthur Handy (D-Cranston), was approved by the General Assembly and signed by Gov. Donald L. Carcieri last month.
The law, which takes effect in January, establishes a manufacturer-financed system for the collection, recycling and reuse of electronics in Rhode Island, and bans products from being disposed of in the Johnston landfill. It also creates incentives for manufacturers to reduce the amount of waste generated by their products.
Under the new law, e-waste collections will be free and offered in each of the state’s counties. Manufacturers will be able to either create their own collection system or pay into the R.I. Resource Recovery Corporation’s e-waste recycling program, which will be expanded.
State officials estimate that Rhode Islanders generate 7,500 tons of electronic waste each year. Less than 10 percent of discarded electronic equipment is currently recycled, according to Sen. Sosnowski’s office, which reports that there are an estimated 500-million obsolete computers in the United States, as well as millions of printers, cell phones, televisions and music players. •