Abstract:
The problem of computer waste is one that cannot be ignored. As computer prices
tumble and rapid obsolescence increases, so does an endless stream of hazardous
waste. Some computer monitors can contain up to 4kg of lead, whose most common
end point is the landfill, or worse, a local field in a developing country such as China.
New Zealand is behind the eight ball in terms of central and local government lead
initiatives to combat the issue. As a signatory to several international conventions that
regulate the transboundary movement of toxic waste, New Zealand is prohibited from
exporting computers to developing countries, but does little to regulate the quantity or
quality of hazardous computer waste within our own borders.
The New Zealand Waste Strategy (2002) set a goal for the introduction of a national
hazardous wastes policy that covers the reduction, transport, treatment and disposal of
hazardous wastes. A framework for this was produced by the Ministry for the
Environment (MfE) at the end of 2005. Progress made to date includes a discussion
document produced by MfE regarding regulatory and non-regulatory options in the
promotion of product stewardship schemes in various industry sectors. Submissions
have been made on behalf of the computer industry in support of this scheme whereby
producers, brand owners, importers and consumers accept responsibility in the
management of the environmental effects of computers throughout their life cycle.
The most promising initiatives from local authorities in the Auckland Region include
the establishment of a Resource Recovery Centre for inorganic waste (that includes
computers) in Waitakere City. Others are being investigated for the cities of
Auckland, Manukau, Rodney and North Shore. Currently, computers that are not
salvaged are sent to local landfills.
It is clear that onus currently lies with the consumer. The fragmented computer waste
efforts reflect this. Several independent computer recycling businesses, such as The
Ark in Auckland, take unwanted computers and refurbish them for resale. Some larger
computer companies such as Hewlett-Packard and IBM have take-back schemes that
promise disposal in an environmentally sound manner, but such schemes are not well
utilised by the consumer. Overseas, the problem of computer waste is much more advanced, prompting the
European Union (ED) to take legislative action. In 2003, they implemented the Waste
Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) directive and the Restriction of the use
of certain Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive. These directives require legislative
and administrative support from the EU's 25 member states. In Australia, independent
and hi-tech computer recycling facilities have been established to recover all
hazardous substances for safe disposal. This has reduced both the quantity of
computers going to landfill and the quantity exported.
New Zealand is slowly waking up to the severity of the computer waste stream and
must take action soon. Whether it be a regulatory route propelled by central
government or an industry lead effort, it must be effective in eliminating the practice
of sending computers sent to landfill.