Contact: Thad Nation
414.412.7814
E-Cycle Wisconsin program bans dumping of certain electronics in landfills
MILWAUKEE — Wired Wisconsin on Tuesday reminded consumers that E-Cycle Wisconsin, the new e-waste recycling program – which requires Wisconsin residents to recycle their electronic waste rather than dumping it in landfills or incinerating it – formally takes effect on Wednesday, September 1.
“These rules represent an important step for Wisconsin towards better protecting our environment,” said Thad Nation, Executive Director of Wired Wisconsin. “Recycling consumer electronics not only allows us to reuse components found in these devices, but also keep hazardous substances like lead and nickel out of our ecosystem.”
Governor Doyle signed the e-waste recycling legislation (Act 50) into law late last year. The bill required manufacturers to register with the Department of Natural Resources and take responsibility for the collection of electronic devices beginning January 1, 2010.
Among the devices covered by the law include:
Computers
Printers
Video displays (including television and computer monitors)
Computer peripherals (including mice, keyboards and hard drives)
Fax machines
DVD players and VCRs
Cell phones
The new rules that take effect September 1 require consumers to bring discarded electronics to one of hundreds of facilities designated as drop-off spots. Among those are Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin and South Central Wisconsin, who have partnered with Wired Wisconsin in the past to help educate consumers about responsible e-waste recycling.
More information about the products covered under the ban and a list of collection sites is available at http://www.dnr.wi.gov/org/aw/wm/ecycle/index.htm.
“This legislation has made it easier than ever for consumers to recycle their old electronics,” Nation said. “And as these devices become more and more common in our lives, it’s important that we dispose of these products safely and responsibly.”
