Dr. Nate Swanson of Newmarket Dental is sick of seeing old computers and TVs sitting on the side of the road labeled "free".  That's because he knows the potential problems that these electronics can cause to the environment when no one picks them up.  He also knows that at the rate technology is updated these days, computers and other electronics are bound to become obsolete more and more quickly.  So how do we find an environmentally responsible way of disposing of these electronics that everyone is bound to have? Well, with the help of the Newmarket Business Association, of which he is president, Swanson came up with a solution.

On October 16th, from 9am to 3pm in the Proulx Oil parking lot, the Newmarket Business Association (NBA) is providing an opportunity to responsibly recycle electronics.  Appliances will be taken off cite by CRTR.org, a company that works with non-profits and organizations to help properly dispose of electronics.  The event offers a perfect chance to get rid of the old TVs, computers, CD players, ect. that have been sitting in the basement, and not have to worry about them harming the environment.  Each device will have a nominal fee, most items just $5 for handling. A portion of these fees will go towards the NBA's general fund, allowing them to contribute to the many worthy causes in Newmarket that request donations. Another portion will benefit Roots and Shoots, the student environmental group at Newmarket Jr/Sr High school.

So what is Swanson so worried about? Well, most older, non-flat screen televisions and monitors contain a single cathode ray tube (CRT) and electron beam that excites and illuminates phosphors on the inside surface of the TV screen which allows the viewer to then see the image projected.  CRTs contain all sorts of different toxins such as Cadmium, which if ingested by humans through tainted food or water can cause softening of bones and kidney abnormalities, Barium, which at high doses can cause cardiac irregularities, tremors, weakness, anxiety, and paralysis, and between two to five pounds of Lead.  When thrown into landfills these toxins are then  leaked into the environment. These can then get into food and water supplies.  It has become such a problem, in fact, that The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has created regulations to make sure that CRTs are recycled properly, and fining companies that incinerate them or throw them in landfills.  

It is not always apparent or easy for the average consumer to know what to do with their old appliances.  In many cases even when trying to do the right thing, appliances that were intended for recycling can be shipped overseas, creating pollution problems in third world countries where workers can make money melting down lead from old electronics.  Luckily for Seacoast residents there are organizations such as the NBA that care to make sure that electronics are disposed of properly.  As the flyer for Project E-cycle implores people, "Please, help start the evolution. Help us leave this world a better place than we found it for our children and grandchildren." Come to Project E-cycle October 16th with your used electronics, enjoy live music and the Newmarket Farmers Market, and start making a difference for the environment.