|
|
 Home Our WorkLaws & Regulations
|
|
LAWS & REGULATIONS
One of the keys to moving the electronics industry towards a greener, more sustainable model is to pass laws requiring responsible recycling of e-waste, elimination of dangerous chemicals from the market and taking a “precautionary” approach to new materials and technologies that forces companies to prove their products are safe to humans and the environment before they can sell them. SVTC works on a variety of legislative fronts to help shape and pass meaningful legislation that moves us towards a toxic-free future.
Cheat Sheet for Existing Chemicals Laws
Not familiar with TSCA or chemical policy? Here’s a cheat sheet! Michael Belliveau of the Environmental Health Strategy Center in Maine has compiled the chart to help explain the differences between current chemicals policy outlined in TSCA, REACH the regulation system in place in Europe, and regulations in place in the SAFER states, including California. (Courtesy of CHANGE)
E-Waste & Recycling Laws
As the e-waste crisis grows, we need to pass federal, state and local laws that protect taxpayers, our environment and public health while also creating the market incentive for clean design. SVTC advocates for take-back laws, landfill bans and anti-export laws that require electronic companies to take financial responsibility for their old and obsolete products and recycle them responsibly. Learn more about e-waste and recycling laws.
Current U.S. Chemical Laws
Dangerous chemicals are everywhere - in our household products, our food, our electronics and in our air. Because of exposure, millions suffer from cancer, reproductive and respiratory problems, and other illnesses. To understand how U.S. laws fall short in protecting us, visit SVTC’s chemical law page.
Chemical Reform Efforts
To ensure that electronic products are safe to manufacture, to use and to dispose, we must pass comprehensive chemical reforms. SVTC advocates for laws that phase out known toxics, require companies to prove their products are safe before entering the market and provide incentives for companies to develop green chemistry alternatives. Learn more about chemical reform.
Europe’s Advanced Policies: RoHS, WEEE & REACH
The European Union has already adopted two directives regarding electronic products, WEEE and RoHS, that require electronics manufacturers to handle their own e-waste and eliminate certain hazardous chemicals in production. The proposed REACH policy would create the world’s toughest regulatory framework for chemicals if passed. Learn more how the EU is taking the lead. | | | |
|
|
