Throughout the UK, the WEEE Directive has become the norm when it comes to recycling old electronics, also known as e-waste. Now, the directive is on to move - to Canada.
For many years a large number of companies in Ottawa, Canada have taken it upon themselves to do the right thing when it comes to recycling old computers and other electronics. One such company is Twenty-Twelve Electronics Recycling Inc. Randy Coulter, the firm’s owner, is one industry leader who is prepared to take part in the new system.
“The basic premise is they want to use as much of the groups as they can that are already there,” says Mr. Coulter.
“Some of the municipalities are collecting. Some companies are private. Some are non-profit. So the government wants to take all of these organisations and standardise them,” he says. The programme will be offering $165 per tonne of recycled materials.
While many businesses have stepped up on their own, one organisation that has not yet implemented a recycling programme is the federal government. According to reports, the government will initiate its own recycling plan in 2010.
Fortunately, industry-based companies aren’t waiting for the government to get on board.
“The best thing for industry has been to get ahead of the curve and work with regulators,” says Jay Illingworth, vice-president of Electronics Product Stewardship Canada. “Our companies have been recycling electronics for decades. We know what’s in there.”
Thanks to the Ottawa Business journal for providing information.
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