"By directing state agencies to be more responsible with potentially toxic electronic waste, we can ensure that state government is doing what it can to keep our land and water clean, and people safe," said Blagojevich. "Industries and households across Illinois also dispose of outdated or broken electronic equipment. We should make sure they are not putting the public in harm's way when they dispose of their electronics. I will urge the General Assembly to build on the efforts of my administration by adopting statewide electronics recycling legislation."
Blagojevich's order today comes as a result of extensive research and recommendations from the Computer Equipment Disposal and Recycling Commission that was established as a result of legislation the Governor signed into law in August 2005. The Commission submitted a comprehensive report to the governor and members of the General Assembly in May 2006 that identified concerns related to the disposal and recycling of computer equipment, as well as legislative and regulatory solutions for consideration.
Of the 57,000 employees that work in agencies, boards or commissions under the Governor, approximately 55,000 people regularly use a PC or laptop for their day-to-day work. This order will require responsible disposal as state agencies find it necessary to upgrade and replace equipment every three to five years. The order will also impact disposal of thousands of fax and photocopy machines, cellular phones and PDAs that are upgraded or replaced each year.
In Illinois government, the Department of Central Management Services (CMS) receives surplus electronic and other equipment from state agencies. The electronics will now be transferred to an external vendor that will ensure proper refurbishment, resale or disposal. Equipment that can be refurbished will be redistributed into Illinois government, or made available to schools or local government entities. Electronics that maintain a resale value will be sold through the state's ongoing public auction process. If items fail to sell the vendor will recycle glass, plastics and metals, while chemical components will be disposed of using approved techniques.
