BAN Provides Update on GPS Tracking System for Electronic Scrap

Samsung Electronics had deployed 40 trackers in 2019 and plans to deploy another 40 this year.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The Basel Action Network (BAN) provided an update on its ‘EarthEye’ GPS tracking program, which makes use of tracker devices to trace the movement of electronic scrap.

Launched in 2018, BAN has been using GPS trackers as part of its efforts to monitor the downstream movement of recovered electronic devices. In line with e-Stewards certification program requirements, it deploys ten trackers every year at random processor facilities, in order to verify whether they comply with the certification standards. The earlier report published by the watchdog had indicated that a portion of the devices ended up in remote locations including African and Asian destinations, where they were recycled improperly, causing threat to environment and living beings.

The companies which have disclosed the use of ‘EarthEye’ trackers include Cascade Asset Management, Dell, ERI, Kuusakoski, Samsung and The Guardian newspaper. This is in addition to other including a state EPR program and a number of retailers who have chose not to disclose their names. Samsung Electronics had deployed 40 trackers in 2019 and plans to deploy another 40 this year.

ALSO READ: BAN and Dell Join Hands to Launch New E-Waste Tracking System

Jim Puckett, Executive Director, BAN said that nearly 100 trackers are being deployed every year through the program.

• Panama President Sees No Environmental Threat from Copper at Closed First Quantum Mine
• Consumers Sue Exxon, Dow, Others over Plastic Recycling Claims
• VLS Environmental Solutions Announces Acquisition of Clearfield MMG in Virginia
• December 19, 2024: Scrap Gold and Platinum Prices Dipped, Silver Up on the Index