ing reduced Weight volume, energy consumption and lead content. Lifecycle analysis and recycling of FPDs is being researched at the University of Tennessee. It should be noted that while FPDs do not contain leaded glass, they do contain levels of mercury that are comparable to fluorescent lights 28. While FPDs are currently available, they are prohibitively expensive for many users. FPDs are expected to be priced more competitively in 2003, but will still be more expensive than CRTs. 29Many manufacturers are also attempting to design their equipment to facilitateupgrading. For example, IBM Printing Systems Company’s InfoPrint 3900/4000 printerengine has been upgraded 19 times since 1990, enabling customers to upgrade theirequipment rather than dispose of it. 30Another example of advancements in computer technology is the development of one machine with printing, faxing, scanning and copying capabilities. The development of these comprehensive machines will replace the need for four separate pieces ofequipment with one, at a lower or comparable price. This may result in a significantlyreduced amount of waste IT equipment at the end of its useful life.Given the rapid technological advancements and the reducing “lag time” or lifespan of computer equipment, it will be challenging for waste management planners and policy makers to keep pace.Corporate Environmental DevelopmentsWorldwide trends in corporate environmental programs such as ISO 14001, EMS and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) are beginning to impact computermanufacturers in North America. Design for the Environment (DfE) programs at IBM,Apple and Compaq are addressing issues such as eliminating brominated flameretardants (BFR) in plastics, finding alternatives to lead for circuit board solder, andlabeling of plastics to aid in dismantling.8.0 IT EQUIPMENT REUSE AND RECYCLING ACTIVITIES IN CANADAThe IT equipment reuse and recycling infrastructure in Canada i...
