1. How do I protect my identity?
2. Is e-waste considered hazardous?
3. Is it true that most electronics or computer waste collected for recycling is exported from "recyclers" to Asia where it is broken down in horrific, primitive operations?
4. How can I determine whether or not a recycler is 'responsible'?

1. How do I protect my identity?

There are many tools available for erasing the data from your computer and cell phone. Symantec's Wipe Info in Norton Utilities and System Works will help on Windows PCs and Macs. Webroot Software Inc.'s Window Washer is another option for Windows, and Jiiva Inc.'s SuperScrubber is an alternative for Macs. For cell phones visit Recellular's.

2. Is e-waste considered hazardous?

If properly disposed, e-waste is not hazardous and according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, e-waste is an issue of resource conservation. In short, electronics contain many re-usable and valuable raw materials. However, if improperly disposed of or illegally dumped, electronics can pose a serious risk to the environment. Therefore, the electronics industry encourages consumers to recycle their electronics products at the end of life.

3. Is it true that most electronics or computer waste collected for recycling is exported from "recyclers" to Asia where it is broken down in horrific, primitive operations?

It is the responsibility of recyclers and exporters to ensure that the ultimate end use is certified, safe and environmentally friendly. The electronics industry is working to establish education programs with federal, state and local governments in order to teach small communities about the harm of unsafe recycling or repair operations and also provide workers with safer locations to work.

The Basel Action Network (BAN) has developed the BAN Pledge of True Stewardship to recognize recyclers that meet certain standards and best management practices in the area of e-waste export. Check to see if your recycler has taken the BAN Pledge.

4. How can I determine whether or not a recycler is "responsible?"

It is the ultimate responsibility of consumers (including small companies, counties, cities, manufacturers and purchasers) to perform due diligence to ensure that recyclers are operating in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.

There are several recognized recycler certifications within the United States including by the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI), Industry Council for Electronic Equipment Recycling (ICER) and the International Association of Electronics Recyclers. The Basel Action Network (BAN), an NGO spearheading the importance of non-toxic free trade, also instituted the Electronic Recycler's Pledge of True Stewardship, which is awarded to recyclers with the most rigorous criteria for sustainable and socially responsible electronics recycling. Recyclers with these certifications are shown as such on the myGreenElectronics.org website. Also, a number of responsible recyclers self-certify and promote their willingness to find a market-driven, safe way to recycle that responds to the needs of consumers, manufacturers and retailers alike.

It is important for consumers to demand that recyclers clearly explain the process by which they recycle in order to minimize impacts to the environment or to the community.