press releases

TCE, September 1, 2008 By TCE

Computer-makers Now Required to Provide Free & Convenient Recycling

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  Tuesday, September 2, 2008

CONTACTS
TCE: Robin Schneider (512) 326-5655 work/(512) 299-1640 mobile
Goodwill:  Amy Rames (512) 637-7124 work/(512) 748-1629 mobile
Dell: Bryant Hilton (512) 633-7527

Diverse Groups Call on Consumers to Use New Computer Recycling Options
Computer-makers Now Required to Provide Free & Convenient Recycling

Dell, Goodwill, local government leaders and a statewide environmental group gathered to alert consumers to the range of recycling options now that computer-makers are responsible for the end of life of their brand’s computers, monitors, keyboards and mice.
 
Because of state legislation passed in 2007 (House Bill 2714) that came into full force on Monday, September 1st, consumers no longer have to rely on local governments or their own pocketbooks to recycle their old computers. All companies selling computers must offer free and convenient recycling of their old computer equipment. 

“Millions of Americans have old computers and monitors in the garages and closets,” said Robin Schneider. “Because of a new state law that went into effect yesterday, Texans are entitled to free and convenient recycling of this electronic waste because manufacturers must provide recycling for our old computers. We encourage consumers to get more information and provide comments on the new law at www.TexasTakeBack.com. The state environmental agency has also created the new website www.TexasRecyclesComputers.org with more details.”  (Click here for TCE's full statement)

"Goodwill encourages the community to donate their used computers and electronics to any Goodwill location in Central Texas, where we either resell the item after erasing any data left on it or we recycle it," said President and CEO Gerald Davis. "Through this process, we have not only been able to divert more than 250 tons of electronic waste in Austin landfills each month, but also raise money to help fund our mission of providing employment training and services to people with barriers to employment."

Many local governments supported the legislation to establish the state’s first producer takeback recycling law.  In Central Texas, these local governments included Georgetown, Kyle, Austin, Lakeway, Round Rock, Travis County and Hays County.

“For decades many local government has been providing recycling services, but recycling electronics will now thankfully be done by the manufacturers,” stated Kyle City Councilmember David Salazar who sponsored the electronic waste recycling resolution locally.  “This takes the financial burden off of taxpayers and gives the computer-makers, who design products, an incentive to make their products easier to upgrade and recycle.”

"Dell applauds the progressive e-cycling law that will benefit Texas consumers and protect the environment. We are providing free and convenient recycling for our products across the globe today and welcome additional computer recycling options for our state's residents.  Dell is here today to join with our elected official and non-profit partners to help raise consumer awareness of the importance of responsibly recycling used electronics," said Kristyn Rankin, U.S. compliance programs manager for Dell Inc.

The Texas law is the fourth electronic waste producer responsibility law to go into effect. At least a dozen more will go into effect over the next two years.

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