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Cathode ray tubes (CRT’s ) are prohibited from disposal in Massachusetts. CRT’s are the leaded glass picture tubes found in computer monitors, televisions and certain scientific instruments. Lead and other elements are added to the specialized CRT glass to protect the user from x-rays generated with in the operating CRT. Each CRT contains up to 20% lead, for Computers and TV’s that is about 4 pounds.
Computers circuit boards and electronics often contain other heavy metals and toxic materials. The matrices can include mercury, cadmium, arsenic, beryllium, itrium, cobalt, selenium, gallium and barium.
CRT’s and other obsolete electronics are rapidly increasing. From year 2000 estimates 75,000 tons per year, the volume of this waste is expected to reach as much as 300,000 tons annually by the year 2005.
Marlborough “residents” can dispose CRT’s at the Resident Drop-off Facility with a valid window sticker, or they can go to www.cleanup.org to find out where you and your business can safely recycle your CRT’s.
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