# Surplus Exchange Gains Certification for Recycling Efforts

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/01/surplus-exchange-gains-certification-for-recycling-efforts/
- Published: 2012-01-09T20:42:42-05:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

## 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](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/11/epa-gives-30938-grant-to-missouri-environmental-education-association/).
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.”

![Workers in safety vests sort old electronics for certified recycling in a well
lit urban facility emphasizing reuse and responsible disposal](https://i0.wp.com/
greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/D1E27674-95B8-4464-B882-74E83F8C9EB9-
300x200.png?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 "D1E27674-95B8-4464-B882-74E83F8C9EB9 - The Green
Living Guy")

A certified electronics recycling center in Kansas City processes used computers
and monitors to promote safe environmentally responsible disposal

###  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](http://www.facebook.com/eparegion7)

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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The
Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant
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Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power
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