Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. enacted its electronics recycling law in 2014, requiring manufacturers that sell covered electronic equipment (CEE) in the District to participate in a takeback program. The program operates under a producer responsibility model and mandates that manufacturers either run their own collection programs or join a third-party stewardship organization. Residents and small entities can recycle electronics for free through authorized collection events or drop-off sites. The program is managed by the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE).

Key Highlights

• Program Name: Sustainable Solid Waste Management Amendment Act (Electronics Stewardship Program)

• Year Implemented: 2014

• Is Producer Responsibility Required? Yes

• Covered Products:

  • Televisions

  • Computers (laptops and desktops)

  • Monitors

  • Computer peripherals

• Who Can Recycle:

  • Households

  • Small businesses (≤10 employees)

  • Small nonprofits (≤10 employees)

  • K–12 schools

• Landfill Ban? No explicit ban, but recycling is strongly promoted

• Key Manufacturer Requirements:

  • Register with DOEE and submit a stewardship plan (individual or collective)

  • Ensure convenient, free recycling access for District residents

  • Submit annual reports detailing collection and recycling efforts

• Program Website: https://doee.dc.gov/service/eCYCLE-Residents