Taiga Company

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, E-waste is now the fastest growing part of the municipal waste stream.  It was estimated that between 2003 and 2010, more than three billion consumer electronic devices would be discarded.
 
E-waste, otherwise known as discarded electronics, includes cell phones, pda's, computers, monitors, fax machines, televisions, and other common electronic products.  Lead, cadmium, mercury and other toxic materials used in this equipment can contaminate the environment.
 
Previously, small business resources were limited in the disposal of these products; however, with increasing consumer eco awareness and businesses embracing sustainability initiatives, more options are available for responsible disposal of e-waste.  Consider these options when discarding of e-waste:
 

• The Electronics Industry Alliance (EIA) maintains a listing of organizations nationwide that accept donations of working electronics products. 
• Best Buy offers their Greener Together Program.
• Search Earth 911's database for electronics recycling.  
• Buying or selling used electronic pieces?  Check out Electronics Recycling. 
• LampRecycling.com provides businesses with an easier system for recycling their fluorescent bulbs, CFLs, batteries, ballasts, and electronic waste, and tracking their recycling efforts. 

 
 
Although, major manufacturers and retailers recycled more than 66.5 million pounds of used consumer electronics last year, still more effort is needed. Incorporating responsible recycling practices into your business is one more step in building business sustainability.