The 天美影视传媒 has become the first university nationally to sign the , a pledge to be globally responsible in recycling electronic equipment.
The UW, which collects and recycles more than 90 tons of used electronic equipment a year, already uses a recycler that is e-Stewards certified. Signing the agreement formalizes the university’s commitment to that practice, according to Emily Newcomer, manager.
鈥淓lectronic devices are big a part of our lives,鈥� she said. 鈥淭Vs, computers, printers, cell phones and others are all recyclable, but they have to be recycled responsibly.鈥�
Many electronic devices contain substances such as lead, chromium and mercury 鈥� compounds that are toxic to humans and the environment. The substances are not considered hazardous to users because they are well contained within the devices. When devices are recycled, however, they are broken apart to prepare materials for reuse and these substances can present a significant hazard to recycling factory workers if not handled appropriately.
To maximize profits, some recyclers export electronics to developing countries where laborers may work under unsafe, unregulated conditions.
The e-Stewards certification, developed by the , seeks to hold electronics recycling companies accountable through a certification process that sets standards of environmental responsibility and worker protection.