Dell Bans E-waste Export To Developing Nations

Dell has banned the export of non-working electronics to developing countries
as part of its global policy on responsible electronics disposal.

Dell's electronics disposition policy now exceeds the requirements of the
Basel Convention, which bans the export of various e-waste based on its material
or chemical composition. By expanding its definition of electronic waste to
include all non-working parts or devices, irrespective of material composition,
Dell aims to help prevent the unauthorized dumping of electronic waste in
developing countries by requiring that equipment be tested and certified as
'working' prior to export.

As per Dell's electronics disposition policy, the vendor defines electronic
waste as non-working parts or devices, irrespective of material composition. It
does not include-materials deemed non-hazardous by the Basel Convention; Working
equipment and parts that are not intended for disposal or recycling, but for
donation, reuse or resale; Components being returned under warranty to the
original equipment manufacturer; or Materials to be used in manufacturing
without further processing or preparation.

Mahesh Bhalla, GM-Consumer Business India, Dell

The policy also states:

• All exports and imports of electronic waste handled by Dell and its
  authorized environmental partners will comply with existing international
  waste trade agreements and legal requirements
• Dell does not permit electronic waste to be exported from developed to
  developing countries, either directly or through intermediaries
• No prison or child labor will be used in the disposal of electronic waste
• Every reasonable effort will be made to control all electronic wastes and
  prevent it from entering landfills or incinerators

The policy also reinforces that electronic waste processed by Dell's
disposition chain is tracked and documented throughout the entire chain of
custody until final disposition, and that Dell will audit its recycling,
refurbishment and processing vendors at least annually to ensure they conform
with Dell's electronics disposition policy and environmental partner performance
standards.

Mahesh Bhalla, GM-Consumer Business India, Dell said, “To ensure that
efficient and convenient product recovery options are available directly to
consumers, Dell provides free recycling for any Dell branded product at anytime
and free recycling for other branded products with the purchase of new Dell
equipment.”