It's now illegal in Colorado to toss dead TVs or outdated Playstations in the dumpster. A new law requires that household electronics, like DVD players and radios, be recycled. But, critics say the ban is missing oversight because it won't prevent unethical companies from shipping e-waste overseas. The Basel Action Network is a watchdog group that focuses on the trade of toxic materials. It says up to 80% of electronics collected in North America for ‘recycling’ end up in dumping sites in Asia. And Colorado’s new law could add to the problem, says Jim Puckett. He’s the organization’s executive director. He talked to CPR’s Lesley McClurg.
Find a certified electronics recycler near you. Find out more about where to buy non-toxic products.
[Photo: jseattle]
