Frequently Asked Questions on Electronic Waste Collection and Recycling (FAQ 2025)

What is electronic waste and how important is proper collection?

Electronic waste includes waste from discarded electrical and electronic equipment, such as computers, cell phones, monitors, among others. The correct collection of this type of waste is essential to avoid environmental contamination and promote the reuse of materials, as established by the National Solid Waste Policy (Law No. 12.305/2010) available at planalto.gov.br.

How does electronic waste collection work and where can I schedule the service?

Electronic waste collection takes place through authorized collection points or specialized services that guarantee environmentally appropriate disposal. To schedule a collection, visit https://ecobraz.org/pt_BR/eletronicos.

What rules regulate the recycling and correct disposal of electronic waste?

In addition to Law no. 12.305/2010, the National Solid Waste Management Information System - SINIR (sinir.gov.br) regulates procedures and information on the responsible management of this waste. Conama Resolution 401/2008 also establishes guidelines for the management of electronic waste.

What are the risks of improperly disposing of electronic equipment?

Incorrect disposal can release toxic substances such as lead, mercury and cadmium into the soil and water, causing damage to public health and the environment. For this reason, legislation requires the proper treatment and recycling of this waste.

How to ensure the safe disposal of data stored on hard drives and other media?

To protect sensitive information, safe sanitization of storage devices is recommended. The specialized service should include the physical destruction or secure wiping of data, in accordance with the information security standards recommended by NIST SP 800-88. To schedule this service, see https://ecobraz.org/pt_BR/sanitizacao-de-hd.

What happens to the recycled components of electronic equipment?

The recovered materials, such as metals, plastics and glass, are reinserted into the production chain to make new products, contributing to the circular economy and reducing the extraction of natural resources.

Who is responsible for managing and disposing of electronic waste?

Management is shared between generators, collectors and recyclers, following the guidelines of the National Solid Waste Policy (Law No. 12.305/2010). Management companies and authorized service providers must guarantee environmentally appropriate disposal.

Where can you find official information on the management of electronic waste?

Official information can be consulted on the SINIR portal (sinir.gov.br) and on the website of the Ministry of the Environment, as well as documents from the Chamber of Deputies dealing with the issue: camara.leg.br.