What To Do with an Old TV

With the upcoming recent switch from analog to digital television signals, many families have bought or are planning to buy a new TV. That means numerous families are faced with the decision of what to do with their old television. What a perfect opportunity to help protect the environment!

Electronic devices, including televisions, contain many toxic elements. Televisions with a tube contain between four and eight pounds of lead while flat panel TVs hold less lead but much more mercury. Both types also contain literally hundreds of other chemicals and compounds that can be harmful.

With the ongoing changes in technology, people are disposing of televisions and other electronic devices at a rapidly growing rate. According to the EPA’s Office of Solid Waste, 1.5 – 1.8 million tons of electronic waste ended up in landfills in 2005, the last year for which data is available. With the upcoming change in broadcast television signals and other technological improvements, experts believe this number has actually grown since then.

When televisions are dumped into a landfill, the lead, mercury, and other metals and chemicals leach out into our groundwater and soil. Experts estimate that roughly 40% of the heavy metals in landfills come from discarded electronic equipment. The good news is that you can help prevent this from continuing.

So what can your family do to clear out space in your home while safeguarding the environment? Simply choose one of the following:

(1)    Sell your TV. Give eBay or Craig’s List a try to see what your TV is worth on the open market. Unexpected income is always a treat!
(2)    Donate your TV. There are many organizations that would be happy to receive your old television as a donation. Check your local nonprofits or visit Earth 911’s listing of groups that facilitate electronic donations to find an organization that appeals to you. This method also helps your bottom line since you’ll receive a tax write-off for the value of your donation.
(3)    Recycle your TV. According to the Electronics TakeBack Coalition, sixteen states, as well as New York City, have created statewide e-waste recycling programs as of the time of this writing. Similar legislation is currently pending in Illinois. These states, in alphabetical order, are:

• California
• Connecticut
• Hawaii
• Maine
• Maryland
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• New Jersey
• North Carolina
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Rhode Island
• Texas
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Virginia

With the exception of California, these states require manufacturers to pay for recycling. With new initiatives springing up regularly, visit the Electronics TakeBack Coalition for a map listing environmentally responsible recyclers by state to find one near you.

By selecting one of these earth-friendly methods of clearance, you’ll not only bask in the glow of your new TV but also in the good feelings that come caring for the earth. Enjoy!

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