Frequently Asked Questions for Environmental Regulations

1. “In Colorado, electronics have been classified as Universal Waste. What does this mean?”
   The Universal Waste designation is for recyclable materials with hazardous components that are “commonly” generated by homeowners, businesses and institutions. Currently, batteries, fluorescent lamps, and mercury thermostats/switches are under the Universal Waste classification with the Federal EPA. All the states are required to adopt these items at a minimum and Colorado has added electronics to this list. Luminous Electronics Recycling (LER) offers transportation and recycling services in accordance with federal and local legislation.
2. “CRT disposal in landfills has been banned by most states? How can I dispose of them correctly?”
   A Cathode Ray Tube CRT contains a lead-based glass vacuum tube, found in monitors and TVs, which produces a luminous spot when electrons are projected in them. Businesses and Institutions can dispose of computer equipment containing CRTs by either sending them to a recycling facility for proper material management or donate them. Either method keeps CRTs out of the landfills. Recycling allows whole CRTs to be taken apart for plastic, glass, and precious metals and be remanufactured into reusable commodities.
3. “If certain electronic waste parts are hazardous under Resource Conservation & Recovery Act (RCRA), why don’t I need a hazardous waste manifest?”
   When used and non-functioning electronics and lamps are shipped to LER for evaluation, the components are still considered products and not waste. RCRA classifies electronics as hazardous when improperly disposed of. Once an asset is determined that it must be recycled, then LER becomes the generator of any waste. At LER our recycling process produces reusable non-hazardous commodities as defined by RCRA.

For additional information on state and federal laws pertaining to electronics recycling and the secure destruction of sensitive information please go to “Government Links” under our “Resources” navigation link.