Released: January, 2008, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK.

The new plasma screen television looks great in the den. Dozens of songs have been downloaded to the new iPod. You might not have figured out all the bells and whistles on that new computer or cell phone, but the new video game system works perfectly.

If the holidays brought a load of new electronic gadgets to your home, you may be wondering what to do with the old stuff. Is it safe to just toss things in the trash?

Over the past 10 or so years, technological advances in electronics have had a big impact on the lives of most everyone, said Jeff Sallee, Oklahoma 4-H science and technology state specialist.

“Because of our growing dependence on electronics, both at home and in the workplace, we’re now facing a new environmental challenge called electronics waste,” Sallee said. “According to the Environmental Protection Agency, in the late 1990s, more than 20 million personal computers became obsolete, and of those, a mere 13 percent were recycled or reused. Rapid changes in computer technology, along with new and improved products hitting the market, is causing a huge surge in electronics waste.”

Lead, mercury and hexavalent chromium are just a few of the things that make electronics waste hazardous material. Mercury from electronics has been cited as a leading source of mercury in municipal waste.

Additionally, brominated flame retardants are commonly added to plastics used to make electronics. If not handled properly, these toxins can be released into the environment through incinerator ash or landfill leachate.

Millions of pounds of materials have been recovered from electronics, including steel, glass, plastic and precious metals.

“Reusing and recycling the raw materials from outdated electronics conserves natural resources and reduces air and water pollution,” he said. “It also cuts down on greenhouse gas emissions that are caused by manufacturing new products.”

There are a number of ways to reduce electronics waste. Sallee said preventing waste in the first place is usually preferable to any waste management option. Whenever possible, donate or reuse various electronic devices. Donating used electronics extends the life of valuable products and keeps them out of the waste management system.

If donation or reuse is not an option, households and businesses can send their used electronics for recycling.

“Depending on your area and the amount of equipment you have, the best recycling option may be collection day organized by a local 4-H club. Clubs may get recycling information from a local electronics retailer,” he said. “This is a great opportunity for club members to take an active role in the betterment of their communities.”

Another way to help protect the environment is to “buy green.” Look for electronics that are made with fewer toxic materials and use recycled materials. Products also should use minimal packaging and be energy efficient.

Consumers also can ask their retailer or electronics supplier about environmentally preferable electronics that are available.

“Before you put the old television on the curb, toss the old hand-held game system or throw out your old cell phone, check to see what recycling opportunities are available. You’ll be doing your environment a big favor,” Sallee said.

Contact: Jeff Sallee jeff.sallee@okstate.edu