Bits and Bytes: Electronics Recycling

By Steve Staves

This week, in light of recent changes to the laws in British Columbia, I thought it would be prudent to supply a bit of information on Electronics Recycling. 

What is the Return-It Electronics program?

A province-wide end-of-life electronics recycling program available to BC consumers and businesses. As of August 1^st, 2007, you can drop off regulated products at designated collection sites without charge, and be assured they will be recycled responsibly. Also, as of August 1^st, 2007, you will be required by law to pay an environmental handling fee on the purchase of certain electronics items.

What are the regulated electronic items included in the program?

·          DESKTOP COMPUTERS.  Includes Central Processing Units (CPUs), mouse, keyboards, cables and other components within the computer. This includes desktop computers, desktop computers acting as servers, and all associated keyboards and cabling.

·          COMPUTER MONITORS.  A display device used for displaying images from computers or other sources that does not meet the definition of a television. This includes traditional Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) and flat panel display technologies.

·          NOTEBOOK COMPUTERS.  Includes portable computers such as notebook, laptop and tablet PCs.

·          DESKTOP PRINTERS AND FAX MACHINES.  This includes printing devices that are designed to reside on a work surface, and includes various printing technologies, including Laser & LED (electro photographic), ink jet, dot matrix, thermal, dye sublimation, etc. and “multi-function” or “all in one” devices that perform different tasks such as copy, scan, fax, print, etc.

·          TELEVISIONS.  A video display device with an imbedded television tuner.  This includes various display technologies, such as traditional Cathode Ray Tube (CRT), flat panel or rear projection.

How is the program funded?

An environmental handling fee (EHF) is levied on the sale of new products in the designated categories. 

How much are the fees?

The following fees will be charged on the sale of new electronics products:

·          DESKTOP COMPUTERS (including accessories) - $10

·          COMPUTER MONITORS - $12

·          NOTEBOOK COMPUTERS - $5

·          DESKTOP PRINTERS & FAX MACHINES - $8

·          TELEVISIONS (depending on size) - $15 - $45

Is this program funded by taxpayers?

No, the cost of the program is borne by consumers and producers of designated electronics products.

How does the fee program work?

A fee applied to the purchase price of new desktop computers, computer monitors, notebook computers, desktop printers, fax machines, and televisions will be used to pay for the recycling of all regulated items returned.

How will I know whether I’ve paid a fee on my purchase?

The environmental handling fee (EHF) charged on the sale of new designated electronics products may appear on your sales receipt.

Why should I have to pay a fee on the purchase of new electronics?

The fee will ensure that end-of-life electronics are processed responsibly and do not end up in our landfills or exported to developing nations.

Where can I return my used electronics?

To find a collection site nearest you visit www.electronicsrecyclingbc.ca

What if I have a large volume of obsolete electronics?

Contact Encorp directly for assistance in organizing a large order delivery or pickup. Call 1-800-330-9767

Steve Staves is the owner of Premier Computer Care Inc. You can reach him at www.pc-care.ca or by phone 250-562-2273 for more information on  Electronics Recycling and Stewardship.

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