Universal Waste and E-Waste

Universal Waste

Universal Wastes are hazardous waste materials that are found in common products and devices, and while they do pose a risk to people and the environment, they are considered to be lower in immediate risk compared to other hazardous waste materials. Universal waste in California falls into one of eight categories:

Batteries
Lamps
Electronic Devices (E-Waste)
Cathode Ray Tubes (CRTs)
CRT Glass
Mercury-Containing Equipment
Non-Empty Aerosol Cans
Photovoltaic (PV) Modules

Due to the nature of universal waste, these materials cannot be placed in the trash container, recycling container, or organics container provided by the trash hauler and must be disposed of appropriately by an approved hazardous waste collector.

Electronic Waste

One of the most common universal waste is electronic waste because electronic devices have become a mainstay in our everyday lives and are replaced frequently. Electronic waste, also known as e-waste, are electronic devices nearing the end of their “useful life”. E-waste include products such as computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets, televisions, printers, VCRs, stereos, copiers, kitchen appliances, etc. Once an electronic device has been determined to reach the end of its usefulness, the product must be collected by an approved “e-waste handler”.

Additional Resources for Universal Waste and E-Waste

To find a location to recycle e-waste, please visit https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/electronics/eRecycle
To learn more about e-waste, please visit https://dtsc.ca.gov/electronic-hazardous-waste/
To learn more about universal waste, please visit https://dtsc.ca.gov/universal-waste-fact-sheet/