CRT TV and Monitor Recycling
Published August 2016
UPDATED FEBRUARY 2017
CRTs and CRT Glass were once easily recycled into new CRTs; however, the demand for new CRTs has collapsed in favor of new flat panel technologies.
Because of rising costs, negative economic incentives, and shifts in CRT glass markets, some CRT processors and recyclers are choosing to store the glass indefinitely, rather than send it for recycling (or disposal), which increases the risk of mismanagement and/or abandonment of the CRTs.
– US EPA, September 2014
WHAT IS THE PROBLEM WITH WASTE CRT’S?
In the electronics recycling industry, waste processing changes over time as methods improve or markets shift. CRT recycling used to be what is known as a ‘closed loop process’ where old leaded glass tubes were recycled into new ones; however, new technology does not use leaded glass tubes. (Think: flat panel tv’s and computer monitors.) There is less need for the leaded glass which used to be a commodity, so they are getting problematic for some recyclers.
We now know that some computer recycling companies stockpiled and left behind over 100 million pounds of CRT tubes and glass when they went out of business, and that “Materials Processing Corp. (MPC) in Minnesota went out of business after being fined $125,000 by the state for improperly storing crushed cathode ray tubes.” One company in Kentucky admitted to illegally dumping electronic waste into a hole in their backyard.
As a waste generator, you are responsible for seeing to the safe and legal disposal or recycling of your end-of-life electronics. Finding a reputable recycling partner is the best way to reduce your liability. A comprehensive e-waste recycling program protects your company from unnecessary complications and costs while improving your business and the environment.
WHAT HAPPENS TO THE CRT’S WE COLLECT?
Your compliance, security, and safety is our priority. TRC’s partner recycles all equipment to its individual commodity components and separates all hazardous materials on-site to meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requirements. They maintain a state-of-the art, automated de-manufacturing and recycling system that provides an effective, economical solution for recycling obsolete monitors and televisions into various new glass uses and products. Using downstream vendors that provide a recycling or reuse process is the preferred method of recycling by state and federal agencies. Waste is sorted by type and chemistry to produce glass that is ready for the downstream companies, This process for CRT glass processing meets and exceeds all federal regulations and guidelines regarding the CRT Rule. All protocols meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations, while safely processing the glass with no exposure to the environment.
TRC’s approved partners offer data security, certified recycling and end facilities, a vetted recycling process, and documentation you need for reporting, including a certificate of recycling. Visit our webpage about items accepted and be assured you safely and responsibly recycle waste like used electronics from your business.
Ready to recycle? Schedule a pick up at your business now!