We frequently discuss the recycling of e-waste here at Tonic News. I have expressed concern about where our e-waste turns up after we think we’ve done a good deed and “properly” recycled our waste. But, did you know that over 100,000 computers in the United States are discarded every day? Mind-boggling!
Where do all the obsolete CRT monitors, CPUs, cell phones and digital cameras all go? Hopefully somewhere that does not expose people or the environment to the lead, mercury and other toxic chemicals within their plastic casings. Think again. A recent report on 60 Minutes covered the improprieties of e-waste recycling right here in the United States. You won’t believe what you are about to see.
Scary? You bet. But, groups and organizations are rising to the challenge and implementing e-waste recycling certification programs and passing laws offering more regulation and watchful eyes over the process of recycling your old Atari game console.
What can you do? I offer some helpful suggestions here. Where there’s a problem, you can always be part of the solution. Recycle smart! Video source: CBSNews.com