Many of our household electronics contain valuable metals and materials that, when properly recycled, can significantly reduce mining, material shortages, and landfill excess. In addition to the large variety of reusable metals, household electronics also contain a variety of harmful toxins and chemicals that, if not properly recycled, can enter our air and water supply causing harmful effects to our environment and health. Below is a small sampling of some everyday items that need to be recycled – these items often end up in the dumpster and ultimately covered in a landfill.
VCRs – Contain aluminum, copper wiring, steel, power board, and electric motors. Also contains lead and mercury
Computers – Contains gold, copper, steel, tin, aluminum, and plastic. Also contains lead, mercury, and cadmium
Find out what's happening in Town And Country-Manchesterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Microwaves – Contains steel, copper, and aluminum. May contain beryllium oxide.
Cell Phones – Contains gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and plastics. They also contain cadmium, brominated flame retardants, and lead.
Find out what's happening in Town And Country-Manchesterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Televisions (CRT, or tube-style) – Contains copper, aluminum, steel, and plastics. They also contain lead, mercury, and cadmium
Definitions:
Lead – Over exposure can cause seizure, coma, and death. Long term exposure can cause severe damage to the central nervous system, kidneys, reproductive system, and blood forming systems
Mercury – Can cause permanent damage to the nervous system and kidney damage
Cadmium – linked to heart failure and stroked
Beryllium Oxide – A lung carcinogen linked to pneumonia and increased risk of lung cancer
Brominated Flame Retardants (BFRs) – Associated with reduced I.Q., fertility issues, and birth defects
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT COMPUTER AND ELECTRONIC RECYCLING FOR YOUR BUSINESS, SCHOOL, CHURCH OR COMMUNITY VISIT US AT WWW.MIDWRC.NET OR CALL 1-855-MRC-RECYCLE