Frequently Asked Questions
What is Electronic Waste (also known as E-waste)?
The definition of E-waste is any equipment, appliance, tooling, or other items that contain a printed circuit board or cathode ray tube (CRT). A business is generating E-waste if it’s disposing of- Computers
- Keyboards
- Peripherals
- Monitors
- Mice
- Scanners
- Manufacturing control equipment
- Cameras
- Telephones
How can I tell if my device is considered Electronic Waste?
If your device, tool, or equipment likely contains a circuit board including the presence of a- Touch screen
- Keypad
- Any sort of video or digital display
- Any common electronic ports or connectors, like
- Serial
- Parallel
- RJ45 (Network)
- USB plugs
Is it illegal for a business to throw away Electronic Waste in Minnesota?
YES! The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) regulates all business E-waste under the Hazardous Waste Rules (Minn. Rules Chapter 7045). Businesses in the Twin Cities area may be subject to additional rules (Hennepin County Environmental Services).Businesses that generate E-waste must ensure the following
- RECYCLE at least 75% of the weight generated each year
- Record keeping requirements and storage limits
- Special indoor storage and container requirements
- Special label and marking requirements
- In some cases, need to obtain a Hazardous Waste Identification number (HWID)
- Transportation rules and requirements