E-Waste Recycling Laws in the United States and Stopping the Export of E-Waste

There is currently no federal legislation in the United States that mandates the recycling of e-waste. Some states in the Unites States allow businesses and individuals to throw their used electronics in the trash to die in landfills; however, many states are beginning to mandate environmental responsibility by banning the disposal of e-waste into landfills because of the harmful effects it has on the environment and health of the community.

States that Banned e-waste from Landfills

Colorado recently became the 18th state to ban e-waste from entering landfills and incinerators. Other Several states are working to pass new laws and improve existing laws.
While the states that have adopted e-waste regulations should be commended, there is still room for improvement. The EPA reports that 142,000 computers and more than 416,000 mobile devices are discarded every day. In 2010, only 27% of e-waste in the U.S. was recycled, with mobile devices being the least recycled item at 11%.


This map describes current legislation for e-waste disposal in the United States as it relates to landfills by showing the states that have enacted a ban, the scope of the ban, the year is was enacted and the ability to see the full legislation.

The Electronics Takeback Coalition reported ten ways we can improve our current legislation to increase collection volumes and address potential issues. These best practices are based on comparing states' laws and their recycling results.

Make it convenient and establish collection goals
Encourage a variety of collection types
Include clear and high expectations for performance
Set minimum recycling goals, not goals that act as a ceiling
Make sure rural areas aren't neglected
Include a landfill ban
Require all processors and refurbishers to be e-Stewards certified
Do not discourage legitimate reuse
Include a broad scope of products for free recycling
Transparency and reporting
The Responsible Electronics Recycling Act (RERA) was re-introduced to Congress recently The legislation seeks to prohibit the exportation of electronics that can create environmental or health issues The legislation would be the first federal mandate to effect e-waste disposal. Although, it does not specifically ban e-waste from entering landfills, it does add much needed restrictions.

It is recommended to choose an e-Stewards recycler because not all recyclers follow ethical and responsible practices when recycling. The e-Stewards certification makes it simple to identify recyclers that adhere to the highest global standards for environmental responsibility and worker protection.