Universal Wastes are a subset of the Hazardous Waste regulations that require recycling for certain devices as the only EPA approved method of disposal. These devices are banned from landfill disposal. Universal Wastes are often referred to as “e-waste” which comprises the majority of products in this classification.
Disposal Options
The Brown University Sustainability Program has information about options for disposal of universal wastes as well as other types of common household wastes.
Used Electronic Devices: Submit service request to Facilities Management to recycle or call service response at 3-7800. Used electronic devices includes but is not limited to:
| Desktop and Laptop Computers | Computer Peripherals | Computer Monitors |
| Copying Machines | Scanners | Printers |
| Radios | Televisions | Camcorders |
| digital cameras | Digital Picture Frames | video cassette recorders ("VCR's") |
| Compact Disc ("CD") players | Digital Video Disc ("DVD") Players | MP3 players |
| Video Game Consoles | Portable Global Positioning System ("GPS") navigation units | Telephones, including cellular and portable phones |
| Stereos | Cathode Ray Tubes or devices containing CRT’s |
Mercury containing lamps or bulbs: Submit service request to Facilities Management or call service response at 3-7800
| Fluorescent lamps any shape or size | High Intensity Discharge bulbs (HID) | compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) |
| High Pressure Sodium lamps | Neon lamps | Mercury vapor lamps |
| Ultraviolet (UV) bulbs | Metal Halide lamps |
Mercury containing devices: Submit a pick-up request at CEMS or contact EHS at 3-1610
| Mercury thermometers | Mercury thermostats | Mercury switches |
| Mercury sphygmomanometer | Mercury relays | Mercury barometers |
Used Batteries: Submit a pick-up request at CEMS or contact EHS at 3-1610
The Brown University Office of Sustainability in conjunction with EHS has established special waste collection sites for small batteries around campus.
| Lithium ion or lithium polymer | Silver oxide | lithium metal |
| Mercury | Nickel cadmium | Lead acid batteries |
| Nickel metal hydride | Other batteries |
For areas that routinely collect, store or accumulate universal wastes please refer to the Brown University Universal Waste Management Procedures for proper collection requirements.