WHAT IS BEING DONE TO REDUCE THE TOXICITY OF ELECTRONICS?
Globally, there have been initiatives to try and reduce the toxicity of electronics when alternatives are available. The European Union, Japan, China, and Korea, as well as the State of California all have legislation that requires the reduction of toxics in electronics. Many manufacturers have decided to comply with this legislation globally. Within the United States, a voluntary program, known as EPEAT, has been established to help purchasers identify electronics that meet a variety of performance indicators, including toxic reductions. When purchasing new electronics, check to see if the item you are purchasing is “EPEAT Certified.” Locally, the City Council passed Local Law 120 of 2005 that limits the amount of toxicity within electronic devices purchased by City agencies.