National Strategy for Electronics Stewardship

摘要

From computers and cell phones, to portable communication and music devices -- the United States of America is, and will continue to be, a global leader in designing and developing new and improved electronic technologies. These technologies have become critical to our way of life and to our growing economy. With these technologies, however, comes the increasing challenge of protecting human health and the environment from the harmful effects associated with the unsafe handling and disposal of these products. Meeting this challenge will require a new strategy for electronics stewardship one that is innovative, flexible, and pragmatic that allows Americans to manage the electronics we use today more sustainably, and simultaneously promotes the new and innovative technologies of the future. Innovation is woven throughout America's history and culture and is an asset we must employ to find solutions to the challenges we face today to sustainably manage our electronics. Some of the problems caused by the mismanagement of used electronics create an opportunity for individuals, communities, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), businesses, local governments, states, tribal nations, and the Federal Government to work together toward becoming better stewards of the global environment. Better management of electronics through the product lifecycle from design and manufacturing through their use and eventual recycling, recovery, and disposal is an opportunity to prevent environmental harm, conserve valuable resources, save money, create jobs, and invest in our economic development. By implementing the recommendations presented in this National Strategy for Electronics Stewardship, developed by an interagency Task Force, the Federal Government will lay the groundwork for improving the design of electronic products and enhancing our management of used or discarded electronics. This Strategy provides a roadmap of how the Federal Government can use its authorities and leverage resources to seize this opportunity.