Labor: What to do with old PCs and TVs?

Sweeping the products under the carpet wouldn't be an ideal option.

Minister for the Environment, Peter Garrett, as the Chair of the Environment, Protection and Heritage Council (EPHC), has called for comment on a national approach to dealing with computer and television waste.

The consultation package includes a comprehensive analysis of the community's willingness to pay for recycling and provides options to promote discussion to find a way forward.

At its last meeting the EPHC committed to finding a solution to the growing problem of unwanted televisions and computers, Garrett said.

"This is the first step in agreeing a solution, and we would like the public to be a key part of this process," he said

"Community response to the consultation package will help pave the way for new product stewardship arrangements.''

The formal consultation package will include a report on the chosen method of recycling televisions and computers.

The consultation package also includes a Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS), a cost-benefit analysis of management options aimed at increasing the recovery and recycling of end-of-life televisions and computers.

These include a business-as-usual base case, a number of co-regulatory options (where industry runs the scheme and government provides support through regulation) and regulatory options.

"The preliminary findings of the cost-benefit analysis are positive with all options showing a net benefit to the community," said Garrett.

"No one option stands out as a preferred approach and the outcome of the public consultation process will help inform the final recommendation."

Written submissions and comments close on 13 August 2009.

Find out more about the consultation package and how to have your say.