When did e-waste start?

E-waste has been around since tv's were began being manufactured and arguably even before then. Tv's or CRT's contain lead in the tube, which is hazardous.

In California e-waste collection began about six years ago. CRT's were banned from landfills and a method to pay for proper recycling was required. Enter SB20 wherein the consumer now funds the recycling of electronics at the point of purchase of their new equipment.

In other states with E-waste legislation manufacturers are responsible for the cost of recycling. Ultimately, however, the consumer pays for this as well as the cost is built into the cost of whatever unit they purchase.