FACT SHEET

Universal Waste Management, Inc. is a state-approved collector/recycler of electronic waste. Universal Waste Management, Inc. was established to participate in the statewide e-waste recycling redemption program, created in 2005 as a result of the Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003: SB20 and SB50.

What are SB 20 and SB 50?

Senate Bill 20, and the later amended Senate Bill 50, were put in place to implement proper management standards of and offset the cost to end-users for the proper disposal of electronic waste materials. The program is administered by the California Integrated Waste Management Board and regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Toxic Substances Control. At Universal Waste Management, Inc., we adhere to the most stringent environmental standards in the industry.

What is E-Waste?

Electronic waste, commonly referred to as “e-waste” or “tech-junk”, is the fastest growing segment of the waste stream. “Electronic waste” has been defined as equipment that is deemed obsolete and/or at the end of its useful life. Due to rapid advances in technology combined with consumers insatiable appetite for the latest gadget, the statistics are staggering regarding the amount of e-waste that currently exists with more accumulating everyday. Recycling and proper handling of electronic waste is essential for several reasons; electronic equipment contains a multitude of components that exhibit hazardous characteristics, such as lead and arsenic. Universal Waste Management, Inc., handles everything accordingly ensuring the quality of our air and water for future generations. Please help us to “UnWaste Your World”.

What Happens to the E-Waste Once UWMI Collects It?

In response to SB20/SB50, California has established stringent rules regarding the processing and recycling of e-waste materials that all approved vendors must adhere to. All e-waste material received at the UWMI's recycling facility is processed and the different types of materials, such a metals and plastics, are separated out. The non-toxic parts are then sent overseas to be recycled and reused. These materials do NOT end up in overseas landfills nor are they burned.

All toxic materials extracted from the e-waste stay in the United States and are processed under highly controlled conditions as hazardous materials. All computer monitors are processed entirely in California and the material from the monitors must be sold to state-approved vendors.