Abstract |
End of life computers have raised public and government concern in Mexico because of several factors including the increase in the generation volumes, the presence of toxic chemicals such as polybrominated flame retardants and heavy metals (lead, mercury, hexavalent chromium, cadmium, and beryllium alloys), and the improper management of computers when they are disposed. This study was developed to evaluate the generation and management of end of life computers in Mexico to propose a policy option according to national conditions and existing infrastructure. The diagnosis identified that end of life computers are taken to three different management options: 7,087 tons are recycled, 5,154 tons are disposed in landfills/dumps and 38,332 tons are reused or remanufactured. From these numbers, three policy alternatives were evaluated and a policy is proposed based in extended responsibility for manufacturers/distributors, government and public. |