12.13.2007 — According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, nearly three million tons of consumer electronic waste -- unwanted computers and peripherals, televisions, cell phones and other electronics -- was generated in 2003 alone.

Furthermore, experts predict this figure has increased significantly in recent years as consumers continue to replace electronic products, many of which contain lead as well as other potentially harmful toxics.

Information like this, the company chairman says, has led Carson, Calif.-based New Age Electronics to reduce electronic waste and help create a greener supply chain.

"New Age understands the importance of creating and implementing consumer electronic conservation programs and we are extremely proud to partner with manufacturers and retailers who are taking an aggressive stand in helping preserve the environment," explains Lee Perlman, CEO and chairman of New Age in a written statement on the subject.

"We feel it's our calling to extend these programs where our customers leave off."

Among its touted efforts, a press release explains, New Age has implemented such initiatives as:

Creative Repackaging Programs -- By bundling products that have otherwise outlived their retail shelf life with complementary products, those older products can be made attractive to the consumer and, ultimately, be used.

Refurbishment Programs -- Products in need of repair can be serviced in order to recover the highest percentage of original parts and accessories possibly to be re-used in finished goods.

Conscientious Recycling Programs -- Scrap units can be sent to the recycler and dismantled to separate plastics and metals. Similar processes can be employed for paper, cardboard and polystyrene packaging.

Efficient Logistics Management -- By minimizing product touch points, fuel consumption and associated pollution can also be minimized.

"We've been tapped," Perlman explains, "to fill an important role as it pertains to the distribution and management of these products, and we are fiercely committed to taking creative approaches geared toward keeping these products in use and out of landfills."