E-Cycle WA information for collectors

To be a collector for the E-Cycle Washington program, you need to have a valid business license, gather covered electronics from covered entities, and have a contract with an approved recycling plan.

Collectors are also required to register annually with us, meet performance standards, and be listed as "in compliance" on the collector registration list.

What do collectors need to do?

To take part in the E-Cycle WA electronic product recycling program and be paid for what you collect, you must:

  • Register annually with us, and keep the registration up to date.
  • Meet certain performance standards defined in WAC 173-900-450.
  • Be listed as “in compliance” on the Collector Registration List. If you don't complete this process, you will not be able to collect covered electronic products for the Electronic Product Recycling Program. However, you may collect electronic products to recycle outside of this program.

Performance standards

  • Operation You must staff the collection site during defined operating hours. You must notify the covered electronic product recycling plan if those hours change.
  • Handling of electronic products You must store covered electronic products in enclosed areas with impervious floors. You may not dismantle covered electronic products to recycle the components unless you are also a registered direct processor. Visit the processor page for information on registering as a processor.
  • Information You must post, in a readily visible location, information about how and where the program recycles the covered electronic products it receives.
  • Access You must allow Ecology to access your facilities to inspect for compliance with these standards or to conduct sampling. In addition to these requirements, you must also comply with applicable environmental laws, rules, and local ordinances.

For more information on performance standards for collectors, read our focus sheet for collectors. If you are interested in becoming a collector for the E-Cycle WA Program, please contact Lindsey Ladd at lindsey.ladd@ecy.wa.gov or 360-529-7460.

Standard plan toolkit

The Washington Materials Management & Financing Authority (WMMFA) is the authority that operates the Standard Recycling Plan. View the WMMFA's Collector Toolkit for more information on how to collect covered electronic products for the Standard Plan.

Curbside collection of electronics

We posted a Guide to Curbside Collection of Electronics Through the E-Cycle Washington Program to provide information and guidance to curbside recycling service providers who may be interested in becoming a collector or transporter in the E-Cycle Washington program.