E-Waste Background

The average computer has a life span of less than two years. As a result, computer waste is accumulating at an alarming rate, says this report prepared by the Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition in 1999. Among its astounding facts: Three-quarters of all computers ever bought in the U.S. are sitting in storage in homes and offices because owners don’t know how to dispose of them.

The report provides an overview of the toxic materials found in computers — including chlorinated and brominated substances, toxic metals, acids, plastics, and plastic additives — and argues that extended producer responsibility is a promising solution to the problem. It’s a useful primer on the problem of computer waste but don’t expect hands-on help in reducing or recycling such waste at your company.

The report is available online.