In June, broadcast television stations in the US stopped broadcasting on analog airwaves and began broadcasting only in digital. Despite this significant change, most consumers do not need to purchase a new television set, but can receive broadcasting signals by purchasing a converter box that will sit atop their older TVs.
For consumers who are considering replacing their television sets during the digital transition, electronics recycling is a safe, environmentally friendly way to dispose of old TVs. "Older televisions contain hazardous substances such as lead and flame retardants," says Matt Riggs, Outreach Coordinator for the MARC Solid Waste Management District. "These substances can leach into our waterways and harm people and the environment when disposed of improperly. That's why we always recommend recycling."
Residents can recycle old televisions at the following area locations:
AVC Recovery Systems, 33 Skyline Drive, Adrian, Mo. 64720, (913) 219-4900
Best Buy – Starting Feb. 15, consumers can bring up to two televisions per day, per household, for recycling at any U.S. Best Buy store. Best Buy will accept most consumer electronics, including televisions and monitors up to 32". For more information, visit www.bestbuy.com.
Electronic Disposal Technologies, Inc., 525 W. 9th St., Kansas City, Mo. 64101, (816) 210-3015
Forerunner Recycling, 8240 E. Bannister Rd., Kansas City, Mo. 64138, (816) 807-5454
Office Depot (smaller televisions only) – For more information visit www.officedepot.com, click on 'Our Services and Tech Recycling.'
The Surplus Exchange, 518 Santa Fe, Kansas City, Mo. 64105, (816) 472-0444
Each of these organizations also recycles a wide variety of other electronics, including computers. A complete list of electronics recyclers in the Kansas City metro area is available at www.recyclespot.org.