In 2003, CAW helped enact the nation's first e-waste recycling law (SB 20, Sher), which is already working to reduce and recycle toxic computer and TV screens, and end illegal dumping—both in California landfills and in the developing world. Thanks to Assembly Member Pavley's AB 2901 (2004) and AB 1125 (2005), California has enacted the nation's first mandatory retail take-back program for cell phones and rechargeable batteries. However, existing California e-waste recycling policies still only address just a fraction of the growing problem. In February 2006, the California Department of Toxic Substance Control (DTSC) ruled that all electronic waste is toxic and cannot be discarded in landfills. The policy affects the more than 515,000 tons of toxic electronics landfilled annually in California.

While California's three e-waste recycling laws represent critically important steps, state policy makers have thus far failed to provide California consumers and the environment with a comprehensive and convenient system of opportunities and incentives to recycle the hundreds of thousands of tons of toxic consumer electronics that become obsolete every year. In 2006, legislation by Assembly Member Pavley, AB 3001, to expand California's computer monitor and TV recycling law to include all personal computers, stalled in the Assembly Appropriations Committee. Similarly, AB 2271 (Koretz), which would have established a recycling system for regular household (alkaline) batteries also stalled. In 2008, California looks again to expand and improve on California's existing e-waste law.

Hazardous Electronics in California's Waste Stream
(CA Waste Mgmt Board, 2004)

More About This Issue:

• What You Can Do: Urge the Governor to Implement a Comprehensive and Convenient Recycling System for all Toxic Electronics!
• More about Retailers' Take Back Obligations
• Where Can I Recycle My Cell Phone?
• Check out our Main E-Waste Page