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Consumer electronic waste (e-waste) at the University of Michigan is a regulated waste stream and MUST be recycled. Electronic waste cannot be thrown in the general trash. Electronic devices have been regulated by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality since December of 2004 with a revision of the Universal Waste regulations. |
Consumer electronics are defined as “devices operated by electricity that contain circuit boards”. Think of this as anything with a cord or a battery.
E-waste can be accumulated up to one year and must be properly labeled, “Universal Waste—Electronics” with the accumulation date. For labels or pick-ups, contact OSEH Environmental Stewardship.
Examples include:
| computers | computer accessories | keyboards |
| audio equipment | microwaves | coffee makers |
| telephones | cell phones | printers |
| fax machines | copy machines | cords and wires |
| remote controls | PDA’s | power strips |
Why Recycle?
Many electronic devices contain hazardous materials that can have a negative impact on the environment if not disposed properly. For example, circuit boards may contain metals such as lead, silver, gold, cadmium and chromium; solder may contain lead; batteries in the devices can contain mercury, lithium and cadmium; older computer monitors and televisions may contain leaded glass; plastics and other components may contain flame retardants. Keeping e-waste out of our landfills prevents the leaching or emitting of toxic materials into our water and air.
How do I Recycle?
Faculty and Staff: All used consumer electronics should be transported to Property Disposition to ensure proper recycling. Items that have value will be resold and a credit will be issued to the department. Items that cannot be sold will be set aside for recycling.
**If staging items in dock areas while awaiting pick-up, please attach a note indicating as such. This greatly assists building maintenance staff and Grounds & Waste Management knowing these items are being taken care of. For example, “Do Not Throw Away – Going to Property Dispo”. Do not store electronics outdoors where they are exposed to storm water.
A few satellite boxes have been set-up around campus to dispose of electronic waste that is no longer working or has no value. Please be sure to check with Property Disposition to determine whether or not your item has value, per UM SPG 520.1. Most locations that have boxes are for buildings that are undergoing renovations and major clean-outs. Below is a list of buildings that have collection boxes, called Gaylord boxes. These are large cardboard boxes that fit on a pallet and are labeled with “Electronic Waste” signs.
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Students: Most housing facilities have yellow collection gondolas located inside the dock area. Contact your Building Facility Manager for more information. For items that are still in good working condition, please consider donating to a local charity.
What Happens Next?
About twice a month, the University’s recycling vendor picks up e-waste and transports it back to their facility. There they manually disassemble and sort components in a secure facility. Printed circuit boards, hard drives and computer chips are shredded for security purposes. Each part, whether metal plastic or glass, is recycled domestically. Some common items that these components are recycled into include automotive parts and glass, fiberglass, sign posts, light bulbs, bottles, beads, benches and plastic lumber.
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