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Recycle That Old TV

photo credit: courtney____

Many old TVs will no longer be used due to the required high definition programming for television. Before you trash your old TV set, there are several things to consider.

1. Many municipalities have banned TVs from landfills because the old TV set contains up to eight
   pounds of lead, a poison that can cause nervous system damage. Lead is in your TV to protect you from radiation. When the TV is crushed and put in the landfill, then the lead begins to leak out.
2. Some charities do not accept used TVs anymore, since the cost of disposing of broken sets is too high to offset the money they could make by selling the working ones.
3. Some recycling firms charge substantial fees to recycle old sets and then some
4. of the unethical ones ship the old TVs overseas.

Don’t just put your old TV set on the curb. Try some of the following:

1. Search through Earth 911’s database by entering your zip code to get a list of recycling, disposal, and donation alternatives.
2. Check with retailers and manufacturers to see if they offer recycling programs.
3. Check with local charities and nonprofit organizations since many of these have recycling projects.
4. Check with your city to see if they have designated drop off days for electronics or if they have a site to take these items.

If you do decide to use a local recycling company, make sure that they have signed the Electronics Recyclers Pledge of True Stewardship. The Electronics Industries Alliance also has a list of questions that you may ask to ensure that your old TV is handled responsibly.

If your old TV is in good working condition, there might be a family who would like to use it with their games or older videos. Do the research for your area and find a good recycling option.