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Posted by Pinky Bean
on July 19, 2008 1:07 PM
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Filed Under: Technology |
Starting in February 2009, the FCC is requiring television broadcasters to convert to digital. Unfortunately this could easily spell bad news for the environment as millions of Americans find their current sets have become obsolete without the installation of a converter box. It's a highly likely scenario that many will choose to get rid of their TVs in favor of purchasing a new one that is already compatible with the new digital format. While it may seem to make sense from a financial perspective (if you have to shell out money for a converter box, why not use it toward a new television set?), it also means that millions of TVs will end up heading for landfills across the country or sent overseas for processing, exposing workers to harmful toxins like mercury and PVCs.
The FCC and retailers can certainly do their part by initiating recycling programs where consumers can drop off old sets and where the televisions will be recycled properly to prevent these chemicals from making their way into water, soil and the air.
In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to help minimize the environmental impact during this transition.
- Before you use this as an excuse to pick up the 50-inch LCD you've been eying, check to make sure your current television isn't already compatible with digital broadcasting. Many sets manufactured post-2003 already are, so look at your label - if it says "Integrated Digital Tuner," "Integrated Digital Receiver," "Digital Receiver Built-in," or "Digital Receiver Built-in," your TV is already equipped to make the switch
- Consider the converter option. You can obtain two vouchers (per household) worth $40 each toward the purchase of a converter box rather than buying a new TV.
- If you decide to take the plunge and buy a new set, make sure your old one doesn't end up in a landfill. Sony offers a free recycling program for their electronics. You can also take a look at the Basel Action Network for a listing of recyclers who have a commitment not to export hazardous e-waste.
- Visit Co-op America after the jump to learn how you can take action and contact the FCC to express your concern about the potential for e-waste that will come from the switch and encourage them to set up more free electronics recycling programs like Sony's.
» Co-op America