Samsung India Electronics has joined the green bandwagon. The consumer electronics major has rolled out a nationwide programme on recycling of e-waste. The programme, called Samsung Takeback and Recycle (STAR) is being rolled out nationally in phases.

The company is planning to create a recycling based society to preserve the environment through efficient use of resources.

Samsung will help consumers recycle Samsung branded consumer electronics goods ranging from TVs, DVD and VHS players, audio equipment and home theater systems to mobile phones, cameras, camcorders, computer monitors, printers, IT peripherals and home appliances free of cost.

Consumers can dispose of portable products at 235 locations in 20 cities through the Samsung service network. For larger-sized products, consumers can avail themselves of the collection facility on a nominal payment (if the location is outside municipal limits) or drop the product at any of the company’s 291 collection centres in 21 cities. This initiative will gradually be extended.

J S Shin, president & CEO, Samsung Southwest Asia HQ, said, “Environmental protection is one of our key priorities. Beyond environmentally friendly products and manufacturing processes, we are aiming to address the important issue of e-waste management with the rollout of the STAR programme. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to building awareness for responsible consumption/waste management practices and ensuring proper end-of-life treatment to reduce the burden on the planet. Our ability to cover our entire product portfolio makes it more convenient for our consumers.”

The company has entered into contracts directly with Central Pollution Control Board authorised e-waste recyclers for take-back and recycling.