Collection/take back programs

Universal waste handlers This could be (1) a business that generated (needs to dispose of) a universal waste (fluorescent lights, for instance) (2) a take-back program and (3) a collection program. 

Many computer and other IT device makers offer take-back programs even where not mandated by law. In the USA, Apple, Sony, Sharp, Mitsubishi, Samsung, Hewlett-Packard, Dell, LG, Lenovo, Panasonic, and Toshiba have free collection point or mail-in take-back programs of their products. Apple and Hewlett-Packard provide some form of payment for the value of the taken-back item. Other companies, Hitachi, Phillips, and Funai, do not now have take-backs [23]. 

The concept of extended producer responsibility (EPR) has been steadily evolving owing to the growing environmental concerns related to product use and end-of-life issues. That is, producers are made responsible for environmental effects extending over the entire product cycle. The concept is often implemented through product take-back programs. Producers are not likely to be involved in the actual physical collection of discarded items, a task that will be handled by a third party [14]. 

Sony Electronics Inc., in cooperation with the State of Minnesota and Waste Management, Inc., initiated a five-year program in 2000 to take back all Sony electronic products in Minnesota at no cost to consumers. It operates through drop-off sites, which also accept other brands of electronics for a small fee. Over 8000 pounds of electronics were collected through this program in 2002. ... 

Standards for collection are only voluntary in many communities in the U.S. Sony, for example, conducted a pilot program in Minnesota to take back its televisions from consumers as part of a municipal waste program. IBM and Hewlett Packard are two companies that offer to take back computers for a fee. Some retailers have agreed to take back nickel-cadmium batteries (Radio Shack and Sears), and electronic products (Best Buy). 

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