Another important organization involved in Dell's commitment to recycling used computers is the National Recycling Coalition. Founded in 1978, the NRC is a nonprofit organization, "representing all the diverse interests committed to the common goal of maximizing recycling to achieve the benefits of resource conservation, solid waste reduction, environmental protection, energy conservation and social and economic development". Its 4,500 members include recycling and environmental organizations, large and small businesses, federal, state, and local governments, and individuals. The Coalition, based in Washington, D.C., provides technical education, disseminates public information on selected recycling issues, shapes public and private policy on recycling, and operates programs that encourage recycling markets and economic development ( www.nrc-recycle.org ).
Dell is also a partner with the Environmental Protection Agency on a U.S. campaign to encourage Americans to reuse or recycle their used electronics. The "Plug-In to Recycling" Campaign is intended to raise Americans" awareness to the value of reusing and recycling electronics and to provide them with increased opportunities to do so across the country (www.plugintorecycling.org). .
Facts about Electronic Waste.
• More than 3.2 million tons of electronic waste is laid to rest in landfills each year. .
• Nearly 250 million computers will become obsolete in the next 5 years. .
• Many people discard computers every 3 to 5 years. .
• In 2001, only 11 percent of personal computers retired in the US were recycled. .
• Mobile phones will be discarded at a rate of 130 million per year by 2005, resulting in 65,000 tons of waste. .
• TVs and computers can contain an average of 4 pounds of lead (depending on their size, make, and vintage) as well as other potential toxics like chromium, cadmium, mercury, beryllium, nickel, zinc, and brominated flame retardants.