Time for a New TV?

Posted on July 8, 2008
Tag(s): Energy, Gift Ideas, Green Furnishings, Hazardous Products / Health Issues
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If you’re in the market for a new TV and are curious about what to do with that old one, recycling is the answer. Most municipalities across the U.S. do not accept TVs in household trash because they contain a fair amount of lead, cadmium and other substances harmful to the environment and our health. For the new set, be sure to purchase an Energy Star rated TV from major manufacturers if you’d like to save money on your electricity bill.

Energy Star rated TVs use about 30% less energy than standard units. To find Energy Star rated televisions by Brand or by Store name, along with any applicable special offers, click here. To save even more on your power bills, plug your TV and other electronics into a power strip that you can turn off with one quick flick before going to bed or when you’re away from home.

Recycling your old television is getting easier due to the realization that the aluminum and copper inside a TV are valuable recyclable items, and also with the advent of municipal household waste recycling programs and manufacturers “take back” programs.

To find a responsible TV recycler in your area who operates under strict environmental controls and follows worker safety protections, click here.

Sony has implemented a free program with the help of Waste Management to take back old TVs. It’s easy to take action and send a quick email to get other manufacturers to take back your old TV here. (All you have to do is sign your name to a pre-composed letter).