China Planning Appliance Recycling Program Sep 22, 2004

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China is figuring out how to properly dispose of an increasing amount of electronic waste as old computers and other appliances are thrown away and replaced, Xinhua news agency says.

"The number of televisions, washing machines, refrigerators, air-conditioners, and computers in use in China neared 900 million in 2003. Of these, 28 million have reached retirement age," the agency said.

As part of a proposed plan from the country's State Development and Reform Commission, manufacturers would be involved in the safe disposal of the waste and the state would provide funds and support.

"Lacking an effective way to reclaim and treat scrap electronic products not only results in huge waste of resources, but poses hazards to the environment and consumers," a commission official said. (Reuters)

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