EPA and GSA Honor Surplus Exchange for Electronics Recycling in Kansas City
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the General Services Administration (GSA) have officially recognized Surplus Exchange, a nonprofit based in Kansas City, Missouri. Moreover, the group has earned a prestigious certification for its responsible recycling of used electronics.
Environmental Impact
Recycling electronics significantly reduces environmental harm. According to the EPA, recycling 1 million laptops saves the energy equivalent to powering over 3,500 U.S. homes for a year. Moreover, responsible e-waste recycling prevents toxic materials like lead and mercury from contaminating soil and water. The United Nations reports that globally we generate over 50 million metric tons of e-waste annually, but only 17% is properly recycled. By using certified facilities like Surplus Exchange, communities can increase recovery rates, conserve raw materials such as gold, copper, and palladium, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 1.25 tons CO₂ equivalent per ton of e-waste.
Certified for Responsible Recycling
Surplus Exchange is now a certified e-Stewards recycler. This certification ensures the organization meets the highest standards for managing used electronics safely and responsibly. Additionally, the program helps prevent harmful electronic waste from ending up in landfills or being exported unsafely to other countries.
“Surplus Exchange is leading by example,” said Karl Brooks, EPA Regional Administrator. “Moreover, this certification shows their commitment to protecting public health and the environment.”
Promoting Safe Disposal and Reuse
The e-Stewards certification requires recyclers to follow strict environmental and worker safety practices. Therefore, Surplus Exchange ensures that old computers, monitors, and other equipment are either refurbished for reuse or responsibly recycled. Furthermore, this approach reduces hazardous waste and conserves valuable resources.
The GSA encourages federal agencies to use certified recyclers like Surplus Exchange. As a result, it supports safe disposal of outdated electronics while promoting sustainability across government operations.
A Model for Other Organizations
Surplus Exchange’s achievement highlights the importance of certified electronics recycling. Moreover, it demonstrates that local nonprofits can play a major role in keeping communities safe and clean. By meeting the highest standards, they set an example for other recyclers nationwide.
Conclusion
Ultimately, this recognition underscores the need for responsible electronic waste management. Furthermore, certified recyclers like Surplus Exchange help protect the environment and public health. As a result, they show that sustainability and strong business practices can go hand in hand, creating lasting benefits for communities.
(Kansas City, Kan., Jan. 9, 2012) –
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 7 901 N. Fifth St., Kansas City, KS 66101
Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Nine Tribal Nations
Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook: www.facebook.com/eparegion7
