By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle Post
Keep Chadron Beautiful (KCB) will have an "Electronic Recycling Event".
On June 19 KCB will be accepting cathode ray tube (CRT) TVs, computer monitors and other electronics for recycling at the Chadron Federal Credit Union.
The recycling event runs from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
"Electronics will be accepted for free with a limit of two TVs or monitors per participant," KCB Director Susan Hucke said. "Other items being accepted include computer equipment and accessories, audio/video equipment, laptops, cell phones, cords, cable boxes, gaming consoles and small household appliances."
A complete list of what will be accepted is available at www.RecycleYourOldTV.org.
Hucke said no microwaves will be accepted during the event.
"The goal is to target those old bulky cathode ray tube television sets because they contain toxic substances such as lead and mercury," Hucke said. "Residents are invited to dig that old legacy television out of storage and get it responsibly recycled."
The recycling is made possible because of a grant received from the Nebraska Environmental Trust.
The trust is funded by proceeds from the Nebraska Lottery. It has awarded more than $320 million in an effort to protect the air, water and land in all 93 counties of Nebraska.
Panhandle Post asked Hucke why it's important to recycle electronics.
"Electronic devices are comprised of toxic substances and heavy metals," Hucke said. "Materials such as chromium, cadmium, mercury and lead can leach into the soil contaminating the air and waterways. Sooted in basements and garages everywhere...these TVs are not a health threat; however, if the glass on a CRT breaks it can release the lead and other toxins in the air or ground. Ethically, recycling is the right thing to do."
Hucke said electronic waste contain precious metals that can be melted down and reused. She said it also saves landfill space.