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Jed Boal ReportingA major waste problem is growing nationwide, one which threatens the environment. Electronic waste, or E-waste is piling up in landfills as old computers, TV's and cell phones become obsolete.
The computer, cell phone, PDA and television you use today will likely be junk to you in three to five years. If you have old electronics around, don't pitch them in the garbage. The Recycling Coalition of Utah will recycle them at one of two Salt Lake Valley Locations tomorrow.
Brad Mertz, Recycling Coalition of Utah: “The company that's going to take them from us will go through them and take out usable parts and the rest will get recycled."
Statewide, electronics represent ten percent of the waste stream, or 460 million pounds. Aside from taking up space, discarded electronics are hazardous waste.
Dianne Nielson, Executive Director-Utah D.E.Q.: “Lead, a variety of other metals that can create contaminant problem when they leach from the waste in the landfill."
Circuit boards, batteries and cathode ray tubes contain hazardous materials. TV's and computer monitors contain four to eight pounds of lead. Electronic waste has been banned from landfills in at least five states.
If your computer is Pentium technology 300 megahertz or faster, someone may be able to use it; otherwise recycle it.
Brad Hintze, Totally Awsome Computers: “If you've got a non-profit in mind, call them up and ask them if they can use it. They can give you that input."
You can take your E-waste to Trolley Square or Sandy Public Works between 8 am and noon tomorrow. It will cost you $1-$6 per item.
E-Waste Recycling
Saturday November 15th 8:00 a.m. - noon
Trolley Square- 620 E. 500 S.
Sandy Public Works- 8775 S. 700 W.
