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AUSTIN CEO TESTIFIES ON E-WASTE BEFORE CONGRESS

Washington D.C. — On Sept. 8, Jerry Davis, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Central Texas and Goodwill Industries International Board Chair, testified before the House Subcommittee on Environment and Hazardous Materials on the challenges Goodwills face, the steps members are taking, and the role the federal government can play in responsibly disposing and reusing e-waste.

During a hearing titled, “Electronic Waste: Does the Federal Government Need to Play a Role,” the committee members focused on what role the federal government might play in the management of electronic waste. In addition, the panel sought input on the federal government’s role with regard to consumer education and the treatment of “orphan waste,” or used electronics where the manufacturer cannot be identified or is no longer in business.

Testifying on behalf of the movement Davis testified that Goodwill Industries in 2004 received over 23 million pounds of used electronics. He spoke of the increasing financial strain placed upon many Goodwills due to the expensive disposal fees many landfills charge to accept e-waste. Davis further noted that this financial strain was having a direct impact on the organization’s ability to provide job training and career services. He also advised the panel of innovative business solutions being implemented by some local Goodwills to deal with e-waste, such as the Computer Works store operating in Davis’ Austin Goodwill, Goodwill's partnership with Dell Inc. to explore responsible ways of managing used electronics, and Goodwill's involvement with eBay's Rethink initiative.

The hearing, which was the second of a two-part series, concluded the subcommittee’s public review of stakeholder positions on this issue. The subcommittee is expected to issue findings to further address the matter. The GII Public Policy staff will continue to work to ensure that Goodwill’s voice is an integral part of the debate.

For a copy of Davis’ oral statement or written testimony, or more information on this issue please contact Jay Hutchins, GII Federal Affairs Manager. Click here to visit their website.