How Does Recycling eScrap Work?

As people and businesses have come to rely on technology, electronic scrap (eScrap) has become an increasingly large issue. Recycling eScrap keeps this waste out of landfills and recovers valuable components.

eScrap was first regulated in the United States in 1976 with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Because eScrap is hazardous waste, this law gave the EPA authority to regulate it, including its transportation and storage. eScrap was further regulated with the Basel Convention on hazardous waste in 1989 after a series of environmental disasters caused by the lack of regulation of eScrap disposal. The European Union has also implemented the Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) which took effect in 2003.

The eScrap recycling process begins with the collection of discarded electronic devices. These devices are then sorted based on factors such as type, condition and recyclability.

Once sorted, electronic devices are dismantled to extract valuable components and materials. This may involve manual disassembly or automated shredding processes, depending on the scale and complexity of the operation.

Materials recovery is a central aspect of eScrap recycling, aiming to maximize the extraction of valuable metals and other resources from electronic devices. The dismantled eScrap undergoes material recovery, where valuable metals such as gold, silver, copper and palladium are extracted through various mechanical and chemical processes. Plastics and other non-metallic components may also be recovered.

Any residual materials that cannot be recovered or recycled are disposed of responsibly, following environmental regulations to minimize impact on the environment and public health.

The quantity of eScrap generated globally has been on the rise due to increasing consumer electronics consumption and shorter product lifecycles. In a 2024 report, the UN documents electronic waste rising five times faster than documented e-waste recycling. E-waste experienced an 82% increase from 2010 with a record 68 million tons produced in 2022. This number is expected to rise to 90 million tons by 2030.

• Improper disposal of eScrap contributes to soil and water pollution due to the leaching of hazardous materials.
• Recycling eScrap reduces the need for raw materials extraction, conserving natural resources and reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

• eScrap recycling creates job opportunities in the recycling industry, particularly in regions with well-established recycling infrastructure.
• Responsible recycling practices help prevent the export of eScrap to developing countries, where informal recycling operations often expose workers to hazardous conditions and health risks.

eScrap recycling is a vital component of sustainable waste management, addressing environmental concerns, promoting resource conservation, and fostering social responsibility. For more information about how recycling eScrap fits into your ITAD program, contact our experts.