| When a battery we use
fails, we simply run out and buy a replacement, right? What you probably
didn't realize is that this method can be harmful to the environment.
The dead battery ends up in the garbage and no one thinks about where it
goes and what happens to it after it it is carelessly tossed. Sealed
inside these alkaline cells are harmful materials which are not
encountered during normal use. However, when the batteries enter a
landfill, the casings can be crushed, or can easily degrade, which
causes mercury and other toxins to leech into the environment. The
problem of batteries in landfills is one of the easiest to solve. Using
rechargeable power can significantly reduce the number of batteries
which end up in landfills. One rechargeable cell can replace up to 300
throw-away batteries. Your town or city will most likely have a
hazardous waste pick-up or drop-off day. Check with the city's website
or newsletter to find what guidelines should be followed for properly
disposing of batteries. Many automotive stores and other places selling
batteries will accept batteries for recycling as well. Or perhaps you
need to start a program in your area. I'm sure any number of retailers
would be happy to help!
Computer monitors that contain
cathode
ray tubes or CRTs can contain more than 8 pounds of lead.
Every year, an estimated 400 million units of obsolete electronics are
scrapped. By 2010, three billion units will be in need of responsible
recycling. Studies at the National Recycling Coalition estimate
between 300 and 500 million Personal Computers – PCs - will obsolesce
by 2007. Conservatively, that’s over a billion pounds of lead
headed towards our landfills and potentially to our ground water
supplies. Recycling diverts the release of lead into the environment.
Save Valuable Landfill Space! Devices such
as computer monitors and televisions are bulky items. The disposal of
these devices can drive up the rate at which landfills will reach their
capacity. When recycled, television sets
and computer monitors can be used as a source of lead as well as
precious metals found in circuit boards, power supplies, and the like.
By donating your equipment you can avoid disposal fees and may receive a
tax break. Individuals, businesses and nonprofits can match up with
others who are either giving away electronics or who need them. Be
responsible and don't just toss things away remember the world only
seems big, but it is the only one we have!
If
you know of a Tech recycling event or Tech exchange in your area, please
submit it to us at events@patriotstoolbox.org!
We will gladly place it in our new events by state section of the
site. Please include the date, time, city and state as well as the
address for the event and any pertinent info our users may need to
attend, including contact info if you have it! This goes for all
events in your area. Not just recycling tech! |
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