Why Recycle
Many individuals and businesses just do not know what to do with the old computer when they have purchased the "new and improved" version.
Toxic Chemicals in Your Computer
Lead
Found in CRT monitors, televisions, and solder on circuit boards, lead can
cause mental development problems in children and increased blood pressure
in adults. Long-term effects include stroke, kidney disease, and cancer.
Hexavalent Chromium
A recognized carcinogen, this compound, used for corrosion protection in metal
housings, may also cause respiratory problems.
Mercury
Common in LCD backlighting, circuit boards, and some switches, Mercury is
known to cause birth defects, elevated blood pressure and heart problems.
Cadmium
Ranked among the most hazardous chemicals by the EPA, Cadmium is a known carcinogen
and can cause developmental and reproductive problems. It is found in batteries,
printed circuit boards, and some plastics.
Beryllium
A known carcinogen - also suspected to cause kidney, liver, respiratory, cardiovascular
and other problems - is used in circuit boards.
Barium
Used in CRTs to help block radiation, Barium is suspected to cause reproductive,
developmental, neurological, and respiratory problems.
Phosphorous
Considered hazardous under the Federal Clean Air Act, phosphorus used in CRTs
is a suspected hazard, but toxicity is undocumented.
Plastics
When burned, plastics can release Dioxin, a known carcinogen and suspected
developmental toxin. Plastics are used in the casings of most electronics.
Brominated flame retardants
A confirmed carcinogen that also causes birth defects, Bromine is suspected
to cause reproductive, neurological, and endocrine problems. These materials
are Used in plastics.
While the list is frightening, the good news is that all of these metals and chemicals can be safely recycled and reintroduced into the manufacturing stream to make everyday items such as tennis shoes and televisions/displays.