Why are we Recycling Computers and Old PCs?

Old Computers and PC components contain many substances, like dioxins, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), cadmium, chromium, radioactive isotopes, and mercury. If treated properly many of these and many other components are a good source of secondary raw materials, if not treated properly, they are a source of toxins and carcinogens. When these goods are disposed off in wastelands they can be very harmful for the environment creating colossal water and air pollution. However, years of investigation and experimentation has shown humankind that we can recycle electronic waste and reduce the amount of pollution considerably. Our small contributions towards this cause can make huge differences in the quality of life.

Hundreds and thousands of monitors are dumped at the local landfills almost every day. Many of us are not even aware of all the hazardous materials our computer monitors are made of. Lead, cadmium and mercury are some of the chemicals used in the production of almost all technologically advanced gadgets. In spite of the reduced size of monitors these days they still pose a threat to Mother Nature. Along with harming the earth, chemicals like mercury can cause major damage to every human organ.

CRT’s or cathode ray tubes compiled of mercury, cadmium, hexavalent, chromium and brominated flame retardants are commonly found in monitors and television sets. Made of such perilous chemicals CRT’s are another momentous threat to people and the environment. With a prediction of almost 110 million CRT’s becoming obsolete in the near future, it should be a huge cause of concern for everyone alike.