Plasma TVs arrived on the market in the 1990s, replacing bulky CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) TV sets. Plasma technology offered a higher definition and made it possible to enlarge screen sizes and create a thin, mountable TV. They were the most popular TV choice through the early 2000s when LCD technology started to catch up.
Today, plasma TVs are no longer in production but people still commonly use them. However, as time passes more and more people replace their plasma TVs and need to dispose of them. If you are ready to part with your plasma TV, it is important to consider your disposal options. You cannot throw plasma TVs in the regular trash. Recycling is the best option if you can no longer use your TV.
Why Recycle?
Plasma TVs contain many hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and other heavy metals. If not handled properly, these toxic chemicals leach into the soil and groundwater causing environmental and human health problems.
Trashing plasma TVs contributes to e-waste, the fastest-growing waste stream in the world. Ethical recycling keeps your TV out of landfills, saves natural resources, and uses less energy than manufacturing virgin materials.
How to Recycle a Plasma TV
Generally, residential recycling programs will not accept electronics. Electronics recycling requires specialized equipment and specific safety precautions that many curbside recyclers simply do not have. Luckily, electronics recycling services are not difficult to find.
Follow these steps to recycle your plasma TV:
- Find an electronics recycler that accepts plasma TVs
You have a few options when it comes to finding an electronics recycler:
- Search to see if there are any e-waste recycling events near you. Community organizations, local departments of public works, and boards of health sometimes put on these events as fundraisers.
- Contact the store you intend to buy a new TV from to see if they offer a trade-in program. Trade-in programs usually offer recycling in exchange for a discount on your new TV.
- Use ShredTronics to find a reputable electronics recycler in your area and schedule services right away. Call (844) 648-4908 or fill out the form to receive free quotes on plasma TV recycling near you.
- Drop off your plasma TV at the recycling event if there is one, trade it into the store if they accept it, or schedule pickup for your plasma TV.
- Your TV will be taken apart manually to salvage glass and remove hazardous materials. Hazardous materials will be disposed of separately and safely.
- Other materials are run through a shredder to break down components for separation. Magnets, eddy currents, and water separate glass, metal, and plastic.
- Raw materials are sent to secondary recyclers or manufacturers to make new products.
- You will receive a certificate of destruction when the recycling process is complete if you utilize a pickup service.
TV recycling is a complex process that requires highly skilled professionals and specific equipment. ShredTronics partners with ethical recyclers that use responsible methods and do not export electronics to developing countries.
Find a Plasma TV Recycling Provider Near You
Contact us by calling (844) 648-4908 or filling out the form to connect with certified electronics recyclers near you. We will send you free quotes on plasma TV recycling services in just minutes. Your decision to recycle will save resources and promote environmental and human health for future generations.
