E Waste

Q2

1. Rechargeable battery of a notebook computer

Yes. (3) It can be recycled in Hong Kong. Environmental Protection Department is responsible for the recycling process. About 622 public collection points have been set up across Hong Kong in such places as MTR stations, electronic equipment shops and convenience stores. Anyone can drop their rechargeable batteries in the specially designed bins and boxes or hand to the counter staff. The recycling process is the first the consumer returned used rechargeable batteries then the batteries are transported to the recycling centre to discharge the batteries. After that they will crush the batteries and sort out the plastic from the batteries. Melt the batteries to make other metal appliances e.g. Spoon and forks. This programme is totally free of charge.

2. Alkaline batteries

* No. (2a) It cannot be recycled in Hong Kong. But it can be recycled in California. Many states have regulations in place requiring some form of battery recycling. California mandates recycling for almost all battery types including alkaline batteries. The U.S. Congress passed the Mercury-Containing and Rechargeable Battery Management Act in 1996 to make it easier for batteries and product manufacturers to collect and recycle. Recycling center, or household hazardous waste disposal facility, or universal waste handler (e.g., storage facility or broker) will be the location for recycling. California Department of Toxic Substances Control is responsible for recycling. (2b) It is safe to discard in garbage bin.

3. Desktop computer

Yes. (3) It can be recycled in Hong Kong. Environmental Protection Department is responsible for the recycling process. The following are the methods of collection and recycling. Some estates and buildings participates in this programme. 1100 housing estates and commercial/industrial buildings have signed up to the Computer Recycling Programme. Designated public collection points- The general public...