Firm: Americans want to recycle end-of-life electronics

Nov. 19 -- A market research firm says most Americans would rather recycle their obsolete and end-of-life electronics than send them to a landfill, and don´t think they should necessarily be charged for their disposal.

Pike Research, a market research and consulting firm specializing in global clean technology markets, published the results of the survey today.

In a survey of 1,000 American consumers, the company found that 76% wanted their old electronics recycled, and that more than a third felt e-recycling should be free and part of curbside recycling service already in place. The company said it expects e-waste to rise to 73 million metric tons worldwide by the end of next year.

When it comes to the cost of e-recycling, survey respondents underestimated costs associated with e-waste recycling and disposal, estimating the cost per electronic item at $12. Pike Research said its analysis is closer to $20 per item. Also, consumers weren´t clear on who should absorb the costs of e-recycling. The company said 14% felt that the cost of electronics recycling should be borne by consumers at the points of purchase, and 10% supported producer responsibility.

The average consumer has 2.8 pieces of unused, broken, or obsolete electronics equipment in their home or storage area.

More information on the study, "Electronics Recycling and E-Waste Issues", is available at the company´s Web site, www.pikeresearch.com.

Contact Waste & Recycling News reporter Amanda Smith-Teutsch at 330-865-6166 or asmith-teutsch@crain.com