GOTHAM ACTION

New York City Electronics Recycling Action

computer with recycling symbolThe Information Technology Industry Council (ITI) and the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) have filed a lawsuit challenging New York City Local Laws 13 and 21 of 2008 and the implementing regulation, created by the City Department of Sanitation (DSNY).

Despite industry's best efforts to negotiate with New York City officials on a reasonable and effective recycling program, the City is proceeding with plans to impose the most costly, burdensome and environmentally harmful electronics recycling requirements in the world. The regulation, which compels manufacturers to establish a free, door-to-door electronics collection program to City residents, effectively mandates the establishment of a separate solid waste collection program, complete with fleets of trucks. This will force hundreds of additional trucks onto City streets, needlessly increasing traffic congestion, air and noise pollution, and carbon emissions at a time when the City is trying to minimize both. Estimates suggest the requirements will cost manufacturers, including many small businesses, more than $200 million annually, resulting in cost increases to consumers and job losses.

As responsible stewards of the environment, the high tech industry fully supports reasonable initiatives to promote the safe and efficient recycling of electronic devices. However, the law, and its interpretation by DSNY, will significantly harm the environment, consumers and the economy by placing the entire burden of collection and recycling on electronics manufacturers whose products are distributed, sold or transported into New York City. The high tech industry will continue to advocate for reasonable and effective recycling solutions that actually help the environment without forcing price increases onto consumers and imposing crushing burdens on employers.