WeRecycle! Files for Electronic Scrap Permit in New York

WeRecycle! has filed with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to collect and process electronic scrap on behalf of consumer electronics and computer companies under the state’s new Electronic Equipment Recycling and Reuse Act.

Under New York’s law, electronics manufacturers are required to either set up their own collection systems or sign up with a state-approved “collective” electronic scrap provider. Collection networks must be fully operational in every county, and in each municipality with a population over 10,000 people no later than April 1, 2011.

By law each manufacturer must collect and recycle a specified amount of electronic scrap, based on market share. The manufacturers also must submit detailed reports to regulators documenting safe collection, processing and disposal of all material. Companies that fail to prove they have met their legal recycling goals will eventually be subject to escalating penalties depending on the shortfall.

“We handle the entire process in-house to make sure it’s done right and fully documented. Our process protects consumers from a data security breach, and we insure that all equipment is processed domestically,” says Mick Schum, WeRecycle!’s president. “That means our customers get the unassailable accountability and complete transparency they need to meet the growing scrutiny from regulators and watchdog groups.”

A WeRecycle! news release says the company currently works with a variety of manufacturers in the electronics industry, as well as state, county and municipal governments throughout the Northeast, including New York State.
“Knowing the communities we serve and understanding the many ins and outs of the state law are going to be a critical factor for companies to successfully meet their new legal obligations,” says Virgil Fisher, WeRecycle!’s vice president.

The company is certified under the e-Stewards Standard for Responsible Recycling and Reuse of Electronic Equipment.