In many ways, California is one of the most environmentally friendly states in the United States. This is partially because this state has plenty of laws in place to help protect the environment. One such law is the Electronic Waste Recycling Act, which has helped dramatically cut back on electronic trash in California. Here’s what you need to know about this law and how it affects you:
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Why focus on electronic trash?
It seems like you could make laws about recycling all sorts of different things, so why focus solely on electronic trash with an entire law? The reason for this is that every year, millions of tons of electronics are being thrown into landfills across the United States. Electronic trash may be some of our most dangerous and problematic waste at the moment. Electronics use up valuable landfill space, and they also leach harmful chemicals and heavy metals into the surrounding environment. For these reasons, California has enacted the Electronic Waste Recycling Act to help control electronic trash throughout the state.
What is the Electronic Waste Recycling Act?
In California, the Electronic Waste Recycling Act requires that retailers collect a small fee whenever they sell certain electronic devices. The fee goes to help make electronics recycling affordable and even free throughout much of the state. The act also requires businesses, particularly, to be responsible when throwing out their electronic trash. In all, this act has encouraged Californians to recycle more electronics, so fewer are ending up in the landfill.
How can you help?
Recycling your electronics in California – or just about anywhere else – has never been easier than it is right now. If you live in or near San Diego, you can recycle through Recycle San Diego. They’ll even come to your business to pick up your electronic trash, and they’ll certify that the trash was properly disposed of according to California laws.
Don’t live near San Diego but still want to recycle your electronic trash? Check out Earth911.com to search for electronic trash recycling facilities near your home or business.
