Keeping Computers From Landfills

There is a growing movement throughout California to encouragecomputer recycling and reuse. Each year, millions of outdated computerand television monitors end up in landfills. Cathode ray tubes, the maincomponent of computer and television screens, contain up to 7 pounds oflead, a know toxin. In landfills, monitors can leak lead and otherdangerous metals into the ground. In response to the problem, charitiesand computer manufacturers are asking for donations and offeringincentives to recycle obsolete monitors. The state has proposed anadvance-disposal fee that promotes donations and recycling. Advocatesexpect monitor recycling to increase as new models are introduced.