Dive Brief:
- The Oregon Electronics Recycling Program will expand its reach to include the collection and recycling of computer components for residents in 2015.
- The program, Oregon E-Cycles, will accept keyboards, computer mice, and printers beginning on January 1, 2015. Prior to the expansion, only computers, monitors, and TVs were allowed.
- Oregon E-Cycles was founded six years ago, and is administered by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). It has grown to include a network of more than 270 drop-off locations and recyclers.
Dive Insight:
The program is funded through electronics manufacturers, who pay for the collection and recycling of devices and the DEQ administrative costs. The state has released 2014 estimates that show the program is in alignment with its goal of 29.3 million pounds of e-waste collected and processed.
Between 2009 and 2013, Oregon E-Cycles has collected 123.5 million ponds of electronics, and 158,335 components were reused.