Dead TVs to be recycled Australia-wide

The number of ‘dead’ and obsolete televisions and computers dumped on Australian kerbsides is set to drop from July 2012, thanks to the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme.

The scheme, introduced under the Product Stewardship Act 2011, requires manufacturers and importers of televisions and computers to fund and deliver a national recycling service across metropolitan, regional and remote areas of Australia. It involves a combination of government regulation and industry action to take responsibility for the collection and recycling of waste televisions, computers, printers and computer products.

Under the scheme, householders and small businesses will be able to drop off these items for free at designated access points, which may include permanent collection sites, take-back events or through a mail-back option. Collection services under the scheme will be progressively rolled out by industry from 2012, expanding across metropolitan, regional and remote areas of Australia by the end of 2013.

Infoactiv Group has congratulated ANZRP (Australia and New Zealand Recycling Platform) on its approval as a co-regulatory arrangement. The announcement was made yesterday by Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and Urban Water Senator Don Farrell.

“As the administrator of an approved co-regulatory arrangement, ANZRP is able to sign up television and computer manufacturers and importers, and collect and recycle products on their behalf,” Senator Farrell said.

“ANZRP’s approval follows that of DHL Supply Chain, which was announced on 6 March.”

Helen Jarman, Managing Director of Infoactiv Group, said, “ANZRP represents many of the leading television and computer manufacturers who are committed to responsible environmental practices and community-friendly e-waste recycling. These global brands understand the importance of product take-back and the need to divert their products from landfills.”

As an approved co-regulatory arrangement, ANZRP is required to achieve annual targets for recycling computers and televisions, starting with a 30% recycling rate in 2012-13 and rising to 80% in 2020-21; roll out reasonable access to free collection services across Australia by December 2013; and ensure that appropriate occupational health and safety and environmental practices are in place.

Infoactiv Group, as ANZRP’s program manager, will deliver and manage the collection and recycling service across Australia.

“We have significant experience in Australia managing e-waste collection and recycling programs for industry and, in particular, running e-waste events for the community in cooperation with councils. Our partnership with ANZRP will build on this and deliver the environmental outcomes intended under the regulations,” said Jarman.

“Brands and importers must consider the significant commercial, environmental and reputational benefits of joining the ANZRP program. Effectively managing risk across such a large-scale national recycling initiative is best achieved through the leading industry-driven program.”

Infoactiv is also calling on local councils and other stakeholders to partner with ANZRP by providing assistance in the collection of e-waste through their existing facilities, which will benefit local government by reducing waste management costs.

According to the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, the number of television and computer products imported to Australia between 2007/08 and 2009 rose from 31.7 million to 40.3 million. The surge in ownership will increase the number of units reaching their end of life - and those entering the waste stream. In 2007-08, 106,000 tonnes of televisions and computers (16.8 million units) reached their end of life. It is estimated that, by weight, 84% were sent to landfill, with only 10% being recycled.