Minnesota’s electronic waste contains metals that are needed for clean energy - Minnesota’s annual e-waste stream contains $3 billion dollars worth of precious metals. By recycling our e-waste, we can create 1700 direct jobs, and get back on track for supplying metals for the energy transition.

70% of lead pollution from our landfills comes from e-waste. As we know, pollution from our waste disproportionately affects our most marginalized communities who consistently have higher exposure.

The workers on the frontlines handling our waste suffer. The National Waste and Recycling Association reports that one hauling truck starts on fire every week due to a battery from an electronic device, putting workers at extreme risk.

Inaction is costing us more every year. Local landfill operators report that spot fires are occurring every few days - in May 2023 Rice County Landfill had a battery fire that polluted the air, water and crops for miles.

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It is time to replace our current program from 2007 that relies heavily on county solid waste money and sends most of it’s funds out of Minnesota.

HF 3566/ SF 3940 will divert electronic waste to recycling in the following ways:

Expand the definition. By creating a comprehensive definition of what is covered, the 100% Collection Bill provides sustainability to the program as the e-waste stream changes. 

Provide free collection for all. Removing the financial barrier for all Minnesotans. Free collection will be funded by manufacturers and retailers of those products.

Create incentives for waste diversion. By directly reimbursing collection sites for the electronics recycled, the 100% Collection Bill provides an incentive to collect more, increasing the State’s diversion rate.

Read current language here: https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/text.php?number=HF3566&version=latest&session=93&session_number=0&session_year=2023