Electronic Recyclers Intl. Supports E-Waste Bill, Coalition

Electronic Recyclers International (ERI) said it is working with the Coalition for American Electronics Recycling, which is supporting proposed federal legislation to restrict the export of toxic electronic waste and expand the domestic recycling industry.

The coalition is supporting The Responsible Electronics Recycling Act (S.1270 and H.R. 2284). The aim of the legislation is to ensure that e-waste is not sent to third world countries, while creating tens of thousands of new domestic green jobs.

"We are very proud to stand alongside the other companies in our industry that are willing to recycle responsibly and do it here in the United States," said John Shegerian, chairman and chief executive officer of ERI, in a news release. "This vital coalition stands in support of crucial proposed federal legislation and will help strengthen our industry here in the U.S., allowing us to create even more jobs while recovering valuable resources and protecting our homeland security."

The act, introduced in Congress in June, would restrict toxic e-waste exports to developing countries that lack adequate safeguards for the environment and workers. The legislation promotes business expansion and job growth through free trade of tested, working electronics and parts; separated and properly labeled commodities recovered from electronics, such as copper, steel and aluminum; and manufacturer warranty returns for repair within the original supply chain.

The House bill is co-sponsored by Reps. Gene Green (D-Texas), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.) and Steve LaTourette (R-Ohio). In the Senate, similar legislation is co-sponsored by Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Ark.).

The Coalition for American Electronics Recycling includes 29 U.S. companies involved in various aspects of the domestic electronics recycling and disposition industry, with 74 recycling operations in 34 states. The legislation is also supported by major electronics manufacturers and retailers, including Hewlett Packard, Dell, Apple, Samsung and Best Buy, as well as the environmental organization Electronics Takeback Coalition.

The U.S. generated more than 3.1 million tons of e-waste in 2009, according to statistics from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.