How Electronic Waste Recycling Works in São Paulo

Introduction to Electronic Waste Management in São Paulo

The management and recycling of electronic waste in São Paulo are regulated by federal, state, and municipal standards, focusing on compliance with the National Solid Waste Policy (Law No. 12,305/2010) and complementary legislation aimed at minimizing environmental impact and ensuring proper disposal of this waste.

Legislation Applicable to Electronic Waste

The central legislation for handling this waste is Law No. 12,305/2010 and its Decree No. 7,404/2010, which establish the National Solid Waste Policy, determining shared responsibilities among generators, distributors, and recyclers. In São Paulo, CETESB's resolution SMA No. 59/2016 (Environmental Company of the State of São Paulo) details specific criteria for electronic waste management, including rules for collection, transportation, and recycling.

Stages of the Electronic Waste Recycling Process

The recycling process involves several technical stages that allow the reuse of components and proper disposal of hazardous materials:

• Specialized Selective Collection: Carried out through voluntary delivery points and scheduled collection systems, ensuring that electronic waste is not discarded in landfills or common dumps. To schedule the selective collection of electronic waste, it is essential to use official channels that guarantee proper waste routing.
• Receiving and Sorting: After collection, the waste is sent to specialized sorting units, where materials are separated according to their composition (plastics, metals, circuits, hazardous components).
• Disassembly and Processing: A crucial stage where equipment is disassembled and components segregated for specific treatments. Materials with a high content of precious metals, such as gold and copper, are sent for recovery processes through certified chemical and physical methods.
• Recovery and Treatment of Hazardous Waste: Hazardous waste, including toxic substances found in electronic components, undergoes special treatment according to CETESB standards and state legislation regulating safe handling and disposal.
• Safe Disposal of Media and Data Storage: For equipment containing storage devices, such as hard drives (HD) and other media, a strict protocol exists to ensure secure destruction and data deactivation. To perform safe disposal of HDs and media, it is recommended to use specialized services that meet legal requirements and information security standards.

Responsibilities and Awareness

The National Solid Waste Policy imposes shared responsibility throughout the product life cycle, including manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers. At the public level, São Paulo implements environmental education programs aimed at raising awareness among citizens and institutions about the importance of correct separation and proper routing of electronic waste.

Importance of CETESB and Competent Authorities

CETESB is the regulatory body responsible for authorization, monitoring, and inspection of electronic waste recycling and disposal activities in the state. Compliance with its guidelines is essential to ensure environmental protection and legal conformity.

Conclusion

The operation of electronic waste recycling in São Paulo is based on robust legislation, adequate technical infrastructure, and environmentally responsible management practices. The interaction between public policies, specialized sorting and recycling sectors, and the active participation of waste generators is essential for the process's success. Using official scheduling channels for collection and safe disposal is indispensable to ensure the correct destination and minimize environmental impacts.