With the phasing out of traditional analog broadcasts in favor of digital ones, millions of TVs will become obsolete on February 17. You can either get a converter box or recycle your old set - no lucky rabbit's foot necessary.
- Electronic waste is multiplying at three times the rate of other municipal waste. (Just make sure you recycle at a dependable facility - some recyclers just ship TVs to overseas dumps.)
- Analog TVs contain toxins like chromium, lead, and mercury that can leach past landfill liners. If video killed the radio star, just think what it does to our groundwater.
- Converter boxes are available at big retailers and listing your old set for pickup online or taking it to a drop spot is easy.
- Take Back My TV - find a responsible recycler (one that won't just ship it overseas).
- Energy Star - go for an energy efficient TV next time you buy.
