Most unwanted electronics do not end up in the waste stream but are reused, according to a study by the Consumer Electronics Association.

Consumers donated, recycled or sold 90 percent of old computers and laptops, 80 percent of television sets and 70 percent of mobile phones in the last 12 months. Charities received 34 percent of the used equipment, while friends got 28 percent and family received 26 percent.

Fifty-seven percent of Americans think local, state and federal governments should play a significant role in developing electronic recycling programs, according the report. Sixty-three percent believe participation in collection programs should be voluntary, and 35 percent support laws requiring collection.

More information is available at the CEA´s Web site, www.ce.org

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