Portland State University
OP-20: Electronic Waste Recycling Program

E-waste management is handled by Facilities and Planning’s Surplus Property unit and supported by campus Environmental Health & Safety. Campus staff request electronics waste pickups through a work order system, and trained Surplus Property staff pick up the equipment. Surplus Property identifies useable equipment and may sell it for re-use. The bulk of used electronics are securely stored at the Surplus Property warehouse. EH&S periodically arranges for an outside contractor (Garten Services, Inc., see below for more information) to pick up and recycle the stored electronics.

Electronic wastes are disposed of in accordance with the Sustainable Acquisition and Disposal of Electronic Equipment (E-waste/Recover Policy) issued by the State of Oregon on December 10, 2008, and in accordance with the State of Oregon Price Agreement for the Disposal of E-Waste. These documents establish an electronics recycling program that ensure electronics are either returned to the manufacturer through a buy-back/take-back type program, or are recycled using a Qualified Rehabilitation Facility (QRF). The State has contracted with Garten Services, Inc. to serve as the QRF that recycles electronic wastes generated by state institutions. Garten’s electronic recycling program and commitment to sustainability is described at the following website: http://www.garten.org/services/admin/oregon/C46/

PSU does not currently have a program to collect and recycle general electronic waste generated by students. Students who inquire about electronics recycling are encouraged to access local resources for assistance. The Women's Resource Center collects used and functional cell phones to be reconditioned for women in need. During Recyclemania each year, an e-waste drive takes place for small items to raise awareness about e-waste in general and where larger items can be taken.

Provided by Heather Randol, PSU's Senior Environmental Advisor