More than 1.5 million tons are thrown out each year
More than 1.5 million tons of e-waste -- TV's, monitors,
computers, cellphones batteries and more are thrown into American
landfills and incinerators every year. As a result, the toxins they
contain, such as lead and mercury, end up being released into the
air and water. While both goverment and industry agree tht e-waste
is a huge problem, there's no consensus on how to solve it. "We
don't have federal regulations that addres household electronic
wate," says David Willett of th eSierra Club. "Meanwhile,
the European Union has policies that mmanufacturerrs responsible
for recycling their products and decreasing the levels of harmful
metals." For now, nine states have passed e-waste laws which
communites collect and recycle worn out devices and charge companies
to cover the costs. "An old TV set can contain up to 10 puonds
of lead," say Connecticut Rep. Pat Widlitz, sponsor of her
state's bill. "E-waste is a public health issue." Industry
groups object to the state laws, saying they're confusing since
they differe from place to place unfairly asign expenses to the
manufacturers. So what should consumers do with unwanted stuff?
First, donate any working equipiment to a school or nonprofit. If
it's broken, find out if your state has an e-waste disposal program.
Your last option: send the machinery back to its maker. Many companies
including Apple, Dell and Sony - will take back their products,
although you may have to pay for shipping.
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