The article “What is Blocking CRT Glass Recycling” is a very informative piece.  It discusses what CRT glass is and why it needs recycling.  It also includes information on why CRT Glass has become difficult to recycle.  However, the alternative is not even a possibility.  NOT recycling CRT Glass is dangerous and hazardous.  Not only to our environment, but to our health.

CRT glass is a part that is found in old televisions and computer monitors.  In fact,  the cathode-ray tubes (CRT) each contain leaded glass. Not small amounts, but actually several pounds each. Because of the leaded glass, it takes very precise and special ways to handle the material.  This is due to the hazardous and harmful effects it has on the environment and humans.  The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has their own set of rules and regulations.  This is so that it is correctly taken care of.  So, recycling CRT glass is a necessity.

The problems with CRT glass is that the process of recycling costs much more than other e-waste parts.  When lead and safety measures are a part of the issue, special handlers are necessary, and this costs more money.  In addition, even though CRT glass recycling is necessary, it is not worth much afterwards.  CRT glass is no longer functional as it was before.  Mainly due to the introduction of flat screen TVs and monitors.  But also due to the realization of it’s harmful effects and costly recycling needs. Which also leads to the lack of need in new innovations.

Because CRT glass is not easy to recycle, and because it costs more to recycle, many recycling companies will decline the work.  It is not worth their time, money, or safety exposure to take on the job.  So there is a very limited number of recycling companies that will recycle CRT glass.  Again, this makes CRT glass recycling even more difficult.