One of the most problematic waste that ends up in our landfills is the huge amount of televisions, computers, cell phones, computer-driven games and other electronic items. It seems that the tech industry is always making a new and better item and millions of people decide they need that item, but what should they do with the one they are replacing?The biggest problem with putting many of these electronic items in the landfills is that a lot of their components can actually release toxic waste into the environment. So, what do you do with your old televisons and other electronic items that have been replaced?
Here are some ideas:
1. Find an electronic recycler near you through the National Center for Electronic Recycling at http://www.electronicsrecycling.org/
2. There is absolutely no need to ever place a cell phone in a landfill. They contain mercury which is toxic, but there are several organizations who will reprogram them and give them to people who cannot afford them and need them for emergency purposes, or will sell them to raise funds for charity. Here are some programs: http://www.collectivegood.com/, http://www.phones4charity.org/, http://www.wirefly.org/.
3. Computers and televisions should be given to churches or schools if they are still in good working condition. Sometimes, Boy's Clubs or other similar programs could use them too. If they are not in working condition you can check this website to find a computer recycler: http://www.earth911.org/ or http://www.techsoup.org/. Some of the retailers that sell those items have now established recyling programs. Check with the place you purchased it.
If you have a program to add to this list, I would love to hear about it. Please leave a comment and I will add it to the list.
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