For Immediate Release Contact
Nathan Mihelich
illinoisrecycles@gmail.com
708-847-0827
Springfield, Ill. – February 3, 2025 – The Illinois Recycling Foundation (IRF), in conjunction with the National Council for Electronic Recycling (NCER), announced plans to host a comprehensive webinar focused on the Consumer Electronics Recycling Act (CERA) on February 10, 2025. Scheduled to run from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM CST, the online event aims to educate stakeholders, policymakers, industry leaders, and the general public about the latest developments, implementation strategies, and the broader implications of CERA on electronic waste management and sustainable recycling practices.
CERA, a landmark piece of legislation, seeks to address the growing environmental concerns associated with electronic waste (e-waste). By mandating that manufacturers take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their electronic products, the act promotes sustainable practices, reduces environmental impact, and encourages innovation in recycling technologies. This approach is expected to not only mitigate the environmental challenges posed by e-waste but also foster a circular economy within the electronics industry.
Webinar Highlights
The webinar will feature a diverse agenda designed to provide attendees with a thorough understanding of CERA and its impact, including:
• Overview and Implementation Strategies: Clair Ryan, President of the Illinois Recycling Foundation, will deliver the opening remarks, offering a detailed overview of CERA and emphasizing its significance within Illinois’ environmental policy framework. Ryan stated, “CERA is a transformative legislation that addresses the urgent issue of electronic waste while fostering sustainable economic growth in Illinois. Our webinar is designed to equip stakeholders with the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively implement and benefit from CERA.”
• Preventing Legislative Sunsetting: An important segment of the webinar will address the proactive efforts being made to prevent CERA from sunsetting. With growing concerns over the potential expiration of this critical legislation, experts and policymakers will discuss strategies to extend CERA’s lifespan. Attendees will learn about legislative amendments, advocacy initiatives, and collaborative approaches designed to ensure that CERA remains a robust framework for managing e-waste and promoting sustainability well into the future.
• Panel Discussion on Challenges and Opportunities: A dynamic panel discussion will bring together industry experts, policymakers, and environmental advocates to explore both the challenges and opportunities presented by CERA. Topics on the agenda include the economic implications of the act, potential job creation within the recycling sector, and the development of public-private partnerships to drive sustainable initiatives. Marta Keane, workshop moderator and secretary of the Illinois Recycling Association, noted, “Navigating CERA’s compliance requirements presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses. Our goal is to provide clear guidance and support to facilitate a smooth transition towards more sustainable practices.”
• Showcasing Best Practices and Innovation:
The event will also showcase case studies and success stories from Illinois and other states that have effectively implemented CERA. In this segment, Jason Linnell, NCER Executive Director and administrator of the Illinois Manufacturer Clearinghouse, emphasized the importance of educating potential participants about available programs. He stated,
“The Clearinghouse program under CERA has had a successful first six years of ensuring manufacturer support for recycling of covered devices. We would like to spread the word and encourage more eligible Counties and local governments to opt in for the 2026 program, and we are excited to share an overview of what they can expect under the program.”
• Interactive Q&A Session: The webinar will conclude with an interactive Q&A session, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers and address specific questions related to CERA, its practical applications, and the ongoing efforts to ensure its longevity.
Event Details
• Date: February 10, 2025
• Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM CST
• Format: Online Webinar (via Zoom)
• Registration: https://illinoisrecycles.org/ira-events/#!event/2025/2/10/cera-virtual-workshop
• Cost: Free of charge
About Illinois Recycling Foundation
The Illinois Recycling Foundation is dedicated to promoting sustainable recycling practices and reducing waste across the state. Through education, advocacy, and strategic collaborations, the foundation aims to create a cleaner, healthier environment for current and future generations. Its programs and initiatives focus on advancing recycling infrastructure and fostering community engagement. Join the IRF today at www.illinoisrecycles.org.
About National Council for Electronic Recycling (NCER)
The National Council for Electronic Recycling (NCER) is a leading organization committed to advancing the responsible recycling and disposal of electronic waste nationwide. By partnering with stakeholders, advocating for effective policies, and promoting best practices, NCER plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of e-waste management.
For more information about the webinar or to register, please visit: https://illinoisrecycles.org/ira-events/#!event/2025/2/10/cera-virtual-workshop
