Under Microsoft’s new program, authorized refurbishers can set or negotiate prices for licenses sold to third-party companies. | dennizn/Shutterstock
PCs for People is among the organizations that have started reselling software keys to companies that were left in the lurch when Microsoft eliminated its refurbisher program last month.
The e-scrap metals market saw a significant impact from the coronavirus pandemic, which made obtaining supply a challenging task. | Amy_VonDe/Shutterstock
Processors were not alone in feeling supply and demand impacts from COVID-19. Their downstream partners were in a similar boat, as three smelting and refining experts explained during a presentation last week.
Repair stakeholders say that voter approval of the Massachusetts bill is an indication of growing public support for policies protecting independent access to repair resources. | RoClickMag/Shutterstock
A ballot measure guaranteeing independent automotive repair shops access to crucial vehicle data passed by a large margin in Massachusetts this week. Repair advocates hailed the victory as a sign of support for broader repair legislation.
The coronavirus pandemic has reduced the volume of incoming assets for some ITAD companies, but it has also opened new opportunities for fee-based services. | Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock
Oceanside Electronics is projecting to handle about 4 million pounds of electronics over the coming year. | vladdon/Shutterstock
A longtime non-ferrous metals processor has shifted gears and opened his own electronics recycling facility on the east coast of Florida.
Industry group ISRI said that updated import guidelines are an acknowledgement from China that scrap materials are products, not waste. | Maha Heang 245789/Shutterstock
Chinese authorities have published updated standards for imports of recovered brass, copper and aluminum. They’re set to go into effect on Nov. 1.
Businesses of all sizes have put increased focus on workforce diversity during the past year. | Zivica Kerkez/Shutterstock
Electronics recycling leaders say a focus on representation as well as changes in corporate hiring and promotion practices can lead to a more diverse industry, in terms of both gender and race.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2021 smartphones, TVs, laptops and some appliances sold in France will receive a repairability score in the form of a sticker on the product’s packaging. | Preechar Bowonkitwanchai/Shutterstock
Looking to extend the lifetime of electronics, French officials plan to introduce a rating system that communicates repairability and durability to consumers.
Remote audits have become a more common option in recent months. | shelleygraphy/Shutterstock
The coronavirus has forced e-scrap companies to navigate material supply shifts, tackle new safety concerns and confront wider economic uncertainty. Another complication to add to the list: certification audits.