E-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world, and governments are cracking down with stricter regulations. If you’re a business handling electronics, it’s critical to stay updated on the latest recycling laws. Falling behind could mean hefty fines, legal trouble, and damage to your reputation.

In 2025, several major changes in e-waste legislation are taking effect, both in the U.S. and globally. California has updated its recycling programs. The international Basel Convention has also made changes. Because of this, businesses and consumers must change how they dispose of electronic waste. This article will break down the key laws, their implications, and how companies like Reboot Tech can help ensure compliance.

Currently, 25 states and the District of Columbia have enacted electronics recycling laws. These laws differ a lot by state. Some states require manufacturers to handle e-waste disposal. Others charge recycling fees when you buy the product.

California’s E-Waste Laws

California is the leader in e-waste regulation. The Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003 created a fee system. This system helps collect and recycle covered electronic devices (CEDs). The program includes items such as:

Entities covered under this law include households, schools, small businesses (under 100 employees), and small nonprofits. As of 2025, new amendments will introduce additional rules for battery-embedded products, requiring manufacturers to list covered and exempt products in an annual notice to retailers and regulatory agencies.

The Basel Convention is an international treaty governing the transboundary movement of hazardous and non-hazardous waste. In June 2022, 189 countries agreed on new amendments that will impact e-waste exports and imports starting January 1, 2025.

These amendments introduce stricter controls on e-waste shipments. Exporting countries must obtain written consent from the importing country before sending e-waste for recycling or disposal. This applies to hazardous and non-hazardous e-waste, making it the first time non-hazardous materials are regulated under the Basel Convention.

The U.S. is not part of the Basel Convention. However, its trade partners, like the European Union, Canada, and some Asian countries, are. This means U.S. businesses must carefully follow these new rules. Companies exporting or importing electronic waste should establish compliance strategies to avoid disruptions.

To navigate these restrictions, businesses dealing with electronic waste should work with certified recyclers like Reboot Tech, which ensures compliance with international trade laws and environmental standards.

Governments worldwide are making manufacturers more responsible for the lifecycle of their products. In 2025, many countries will introduce new extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws, requiring companies to create take-back programs, increase recycling efforts, and use sustainable materials in production. These mandates aim to make e-waste disposal easier for consumers and reduce environmental harm.

Governments worldwide are making manufacturers more responsible for the lifecycle of their products. In 2025, many countries will introduce new extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws, requiring companies to create take-back programs, increase recycling efforts, and use sustainable materials in production. These mandates aim to make e-waste disposal easier for consumers and reduce environmental harm.

In 2025, governments will push for a more circular economy, ensuring that electronics are easier to repair, reuse, and recycle. This shift aims to minimize waste and extend product lifespans. Companies may face:

• Design requirements for easier repair and upgrades
• Incentives for consumers to return old electronics
• New standards for recyclable materials in electronic products

To prevent unsafe recycling practices in developing countries, many nations are expected to tighten restrictions on e-waste exports. New international regulations will enforce stricter rules for shipping e-waste, ensuring that hazardous materials are processed responsibly. The Basel Convention’s prior informed consent requirements will play a key role in regulating cross-border e-waste movement.

California continues to lead in e-waste regulation with new rules effective January 1, 2025. Under these changes:

• CalRecycle will implement a process for recyclers to submit claims for covered battery-embedded products.
• By July 1, 2025, manufacturers must provide an annual notice listing covered and exempt products.
• By October 1, 2025, a CEW recycling fee will be established for battery-embedded products.

Businesses that manufacture or sell electronic products in California must be aware of these new rules and ensure compliance to avoid penalties.

With stricter regulations coming in 2025, businesses must take proactive steps to comply with evolving e-waste laws. Partnering with an experienced recycling provider can ensure compliance while protecting data security and the environment.

Work With Reboot Tech

Reboot Tech is an EPA, DTSC, ISO, and CalRecycle-certified e-waste recycler based in Ontario, California. We work with various industries, offering comprehensive IT asset disposition (ITAD), secure data destruction, and e-waste recycling. Our services help businesses meet regulatory requirements while ensuring environmental sustainability.

By working with Reboot Tech, your business can:

• Ensure compliance with state and federal e-waste regulations
• Securely destroy sensitive data on electronic devices
• Responsibly recycle and repurpose electronic components
• Reduce environmental impact and contribute to a circular economy

As e-waste regulations continue to evolve, staying informed and working with a certified recycling partner will be crucial. Don’t wait until it’s too late—prepare your business now for the 2025 e-waste recycling laws!