What's the problem?

A CRT contains between 2 and 6 pounds of lead! Other hazardous or toxic substances such as cadmium may also be found there. Lead, Cadmium and Mercury can cause brain and kidney damage. Manufacturing and burning plastics as garbage can release toxic fumes. Flame retardants are linked to long term toxic effects.

CRTs can be reused or recycled so don't put them in the trash!

Here are a few alternatives for you to help reduce toxic waste from TVs and computer monitors?
Repair, Resell or Donate

• Call a business that buys and sells computers or sell it yourself.
• Consider donating your used working computer or TV. (Goodwill and The Salvation Army no longer accept TVs or computer monitors.)

And for the next time you purchase….
A GUIDE TO ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERABLE COMPUTER PURCHASING.

Most equipment is not designed for disposal; it does not come apart easily, and parts cannot be upgraded separately. Units may not be recyclable if the materials are hard to separate. The result is large amounts of electronic junk. Besides wasting materials, the manufacturing and disposal processes may release pollutants to air and water and affect human health. The costs of frequent replacement, plus hazardous waste disposal for some items, can add up quickly. What looked like a good price to buy equipment may carry significant hidden costs.

What's the alternative?

• Lease and take-back options (purchaser buys computing "service" rather than a computer "product").
• Choose operating and software that are readily upgradable.
• Ask for readily upgradable hardware.
• Make sure spare parts and service will be available (defined in "years available after production.")
• Check to see that memory is expandable.