In 2007, nearly 500 million U.S. computers became obsolete. That’s a big chunk of junk.
Businesses trying to recycle their IT assets may assume that private recycling firms dispose of their materials ethically and responsibly. But, as recent headlines have reported, many firms simply dump them. The result, says Ned Eldridge, president of eLoop LLC, contributes to the 138,000 tons of electronic waste dumped in Pennsylvania landfills each year.
Eldridge, who founded eLoop in Pittsburgh in 2008, estimates that only 15 to 20 percent of used computers, cell phones, and other equipment is currently recycled. The remaining 80 percent of e-waste is exported or sent to landfills, with serious long-term effects. Computers and CRT monitors contain hazardous chemicals such as lead, cadmium, and mercury, which can seep into the ground and cause water contamination in a landfill.
“Most people are coming to us because we have a complete chain of custody for all our products. We de-pollute the materials and turn them back into commodities that have value–positive use in another form,” says Eldridge. Lately, eLoop’s careful practices have gained attention. Eldridge says the privately-held firm has tripled its revenues to about $200,000 this year, and it will increase its current staff of 11 to 14 this fall.
The company certifies the data security of electronics it accepts. It also guarantees that materials will not be placed in landfills, processed by prison labor, or exported to underdeveloped countries. E-Loop resells all reclaimed commodity-grade materials.
E-Loop’s guarantee of safe, ethical disposal has attracted business customers like Respironics and Vocollect.
Source: Ned Eldridge
Writer: Chris O’Toole