Maryland’s e-waste recycling program was launched in 2005 and primarily focuses on manufacturer responsibility. While participation is currently limited to computer equipment, manufacturers must register with the state and pay annual fees used to fund local e-waste recycling programs. The law does not ban electronics from landfills, but it provides a financial structure to support electronics recycling infrastructure statewide. Counties may also run their own additional programs for broader e-waste collection.
Program Name: Maryland Statewide Electronics Recycling Program
Year Implemented: 2005
Is Producer Responsibility Required? Yes
Covered Products:
Desktop and laptop computers
Computer monitors
Computer peripherals (e.g., keyboards, mice, printers)
Who Can Recycle:
Households
Small businesses and nonprofits (through county programs)
Landfill Ban? No – recycling encouraged, not mandated
Key Manufacturer Requirements:
Register annually with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE)
Pay an annual fee ($5,000 or reduced to $500 for small manufacturers with takeback programs)
Label all products with brand name
Submit annual reports to the state
Program Website: https://mde.maryland.gov/programs/LAND/RecyclingandOperationsprogram/Pages/ecycling.aspx
