EPA Certifies Electronics Recyclers

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken what it calls its first step to help electronics recyclers adhere to published export standards when processing and  shipping obsolete electronics.

Through the EPA's new program -- called Responsible Recycling Practices Certifications – electronics recyclers would not ship material overseas without the consent of the designated country.

In highlighting the program, EPA notes that three companies nationwide have received the new designation, including the first certified recycler in the Mid-Atlantic region.

The companies receiving the certification are E-structors Inc., located in Elkridge, Md.; TechTurn, located in Austin, Texas; and Waste Management of Minnesota, Minnesota.

“This new e-cycling certification program will take the guesswork out of choosing a responsible recycler,” says Shawn Garvin, EPA’s regional administrator. “Recycling is an important tool in our arsenal, and we need to make sure it’s done correctly to prevent environmental harm and ensure the safe re-use of materials. We strongly encourage other electronic recyclers to obtain the certification to ensure that public health and the environment receive the highest protection available.”

According to the standards developed by EPA's Responsible Recycling Practices Certifications, protocols required of certified recyclers will help reduce energy and natural resource consumption, greenhouse gases and hazardous waste.

The EPA also says that recyclers are not permitted to burn or landfill certain materials. If electronics are to be sold for reuse, the recycler must show that all personal data has been cleared or destroyed, the equipment has been tested and is in working condition, and that the equipment is properly packaged.

To apply for certification, electronics recyclers should contact either SGS or Perry Johnson Registrars to receive certification, provided they meet the certification standards.

Both SGS and Perry Johnson Registrars are companies involved in inspection, verification, testing and certification. As accredited certifying bodies for certification, SGS and Perry Johnson Registrars are required to list companies they have certified on their respective websites.