Talk:Ewaste Training

Oregon E-Cycles is the nickname for Oregon’s Electronics Recycling Law (ORS 459A.300-.365).

ORS 459A.300- .365 was passed by the 2007 State Legislature and mandates that as of January 1. 2010 "...disposal of computers, monitors and TVs will be prohibited in Oregon." This is great for the typical individual because s/he can now recycle their electronics for free (sort of). Before the E-Cycles law, Free Geek used to charge a flat fee of $10 per monitor or television.

Now, anyone can bring seven or fewer computers, laptops, monitors, and TVs at a time to participating Oregon E-Cycles collectors for "free recycling." Free Geek is a participating E-Cycles collection point. The E-Cycles program does not provide free recycling of keyboards, mice, speakers, printers, scanners, or other types of electronics or appliances. However, Free Geek will ask for a suggested donation for everything donated in order to: (1) offset recycling costs and (2) support our awesome programs (build, adoption, hardware grants, internships). Free Geek will mandate a charge if there are seven or more covered electronic devices. "Covered" means covered by the Electronics Recycling Law.

Oregon's Department of Environmental Quality has a great FAQ site here: http://www.deq.state.or.us/lq/ecycle/consumers/faq.htm

This press release from 12/20/2008 had the following pertinent statistics: "According to the Oregon DEQ, unwanted computers, monitors and TVs – referred to as electronic waste or “e-waste” – is the fastest growing waste stream in the U.S. With technology constantly changing, we replace our electronics every few years. In 2007 alone, Americans generated about 232 million units of computer and TV-related e-waste, only 18% of which was recycled. In addition, it’s estimated that 235 million more units are stored in our basements, closets, and garages." http://www.prlog.org/10158096-nonproft-struggles-to-include-reuse-in-new-oregon-electronics-recycling-law.html