Making e-waste disappear, greenly
A little update, following my DVD-recycling adventure and other odd recyling news:
Unbeknownst to most Los Angeles residents, it’s illegal to throw used batteries into the trash. Those, as well as “singing” greeting cards, mercury thermometers, sneakers with flashing lights, CFL lightbulbs, and microwaves along with most other electronic appliances, should be taken to a S.A.F.E. (Solvents/Automotive/Flammables/Electronics) Center.
I’m all for government efforts to keep mercury and other toxins out of our environment. The problem, however, is that of education and access. Many — if not most — people don’t know what they shouldn’t just toss into the black trash bins headed to landfills. And even when they do, finding and getting to a S.A.F.E. Center’s hard enough to discourage them from making use of that knowledge.
More on WorldChanging Los Angeles
I just found out that BatteriesPlus offers battery recycling for those who have a store in their area: http://www.batteriesplus.com/t-recycle.aspx
This was welcomed news as I have a nice collection of dead batteries sitting in my kitchen drawer that have outstayed their welcome.
Comment by TOMAS — January 11, 2007 @ 11:05 pm
Hey Tomas — I just wanted to clarify (you may already know this) that the service you mentioned is only for RECHARGEABLE batteries. This service doesn’t seem to accept “regular” batteries — which many people are still purchasing –
Comment by Siel — January 13, 2007 @ 12:36 am
Actually, I wasn’t aware that it was for rechargeable batteries only, super bummer. Thank you for the heads up, I was almost ready to gear up and drop by with my dead batteries.
Comment by TOMAS — January 15, 2007 @ 8:35 pm