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22 22 P a r t I : a r t I : T r e n d s a n d R e a s o n s t o G o G r e e nr e n d s a n d R e a s o n s t o G o G r e e n

ReDesign The ReDesign task force supports a sustainable solution to the e-waste problem
by focusing on the notion of concept and electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) design.
The group’s main objective is to optimize the life cycle characteristics of EEE and their
adaptation to specific end-of-life conditions.
Current “design for recycling” activities now are focused on industrialized nations. This
task force makes special efforts in identifying specific issues in industrializing countries
around the world.
The task force defines redesign as measures that support the optimal lifetime of a specific
product through the optimization of design features. Such efforts hope to improve repair,
refurbishment, reuse, and recycling of a product and its components.
Specific tasks include the following:
• Identifying and assessing critical design aspects in the end-of-life treatment of EEE.
This could include the material composition and toxicity, its design, or any other
components that might impact a product’s end of life.
• Comparing current industry approaches to product end-of-life to identify current
economical, environmental, and regional design considerations.
• Developing and demonstrating new design solutions of various products.

ReUse The goal of the ReUse task force is to define globally consistent reuse practices,
principles, and standards for EEE products from business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-
consumer (B2C) users that are economically, socially, and environmentally appropriate for:
• Changing consumer behavior to get acceptance for reuse and early product
takeback. The idea is to avoid long storage by the consumer.
• Extending the usage of EEE products and components.
• Reducing the flow of irresponsible reuse between donor and developing countries.

Specific goals of the task force include:

• Developing a common nomenclature for definitions of reuse, refurbishment, EEE
products, and other related topics.
• Determining how equipment enters the “reuse” category.
• Developing globally consistent environmental and business principles and
guidelines for equipment recovery.
• Designing a global standard and program for maintaining quality in
environmentally sound practices, data privacy, and usage extension.
• Identifying the common barriers to product life extension and recommending
practices to overcome these barriers.
• Developing cross-border guidelines and developing guidelines to determine when
reuse is economically, environmentally, and socially preferable to recycling.

ReCycle The goal of the ReCycle task force is to enhance global recycling infrastructures,
systems, and technologies while realizing sustainable e-waste-recycling systems.