Electronic waste, or e-waste, is rapidly becoming one of the largest waste streams in the United States. Currently, Americans produce approximately 8 million tons of e-waste annually. This figure translates to around 666,000 tons of e-waste each month, averaging about 47 pounds per person per year.
In Connecticut, significant strides have been made in managing e-waste. Following the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation in 2011, the state saw a 76% decrease in residential electronics discarded in regular trash. In the fiscal year 2024 alone, Connecticut municipalities saved about $673,000 in disposal costs due to effective e-waste management.
While Connecticut successfully manages much of its e-waste through certified recycling programs, nationally, only about 15-20% of e-waste is properly recycled. The remainder, approximately 80%, is either landfilled, incinerated, or exported overseas. Connecticut’s strict adherence to R2 and E-Stewards recycling standards ensures a more responsible approach to handling electronic waste.
Addressing e-waste responsibly remains critical. Connecticut’s example demonstrates the effectiveness of well-implemented EPR laws and certified recycling programs, offering a template for national improvements.
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