As disposal of electronic waste moves further forward into our consciousness (or you’ve recently “recycled” an old printer or computer not knowing where the old one actually ends up), it’s interesting to note the companies formulating policies that deal with the issue.
Originally published in 2004, HP’s vendor requirements for hardware reuse and recycling includes a ban on the export of hazardous or regulated materials from developed to developing countries.
HP’s e-waste export policy contains the company’s commitment to responsibly dispose of all e-waste generated by HP’s global operations and take-back programs.
E-waste processed by HP and its authorized vendors is tracked and documented throughout the entire chain of custody until final disposition. HP audits its recycling, refurbishment and processing vendors annually to ensure they conform to its vendor requirements for hardware reuse and recycling and supply chain social and environmental responsibility (SER) policies.
HP defines e-waste as nonworking parts or devices; this does not include:
- Materials defined as nonhazardous under the Basel Convention;
- Working equipment and parts that are not intended for disposal or recycling, but are for donation, reuse or resale;
- Components being returned to the original equipment manufacturer that are under warranty; and
- Materials to be used in manufacturing that do not require further processing or preparation.
