Around Atlanta, Texas

First E-Waste Day Huge Success

4/3/2006
The inaugural E-Waste Day sponsored by the Amity Study Club in cooperation with the recycling company, UNICOR, was deemed a huge success by club members even if it did fall on April Fool's Day. "Recyclers were waiting for us to open the doors this morning-we are very happy with the public response," club member Betty Pattillo, who spearheaded the project, exclaimed as the second shift of volunteers reported for duty after the early wave of electronic drop-offs. "Some discarded electronics were even left at the door overnight," continued Pattillo. "Response has been overwhelming."

More than 130,000 Americans replace old computers every day and dispose of 2 million tons of out-dated electronic equipment every year. Those products contain dangerouse materials such as nickel, zinc, chromium and lead. Such hazardous and toxic waste create environmental risks if disposed of inappropriately.

Items that were accepted for recycling included electronic products that contained a computer chip such as fax machines, computer components, televisions, digital cameras, computer games, laptops, cell phones, electric cords, power supplies and printers. Metals like gold in older computer chips can be removed, avoiding burial in landfills. The E-Waste program can extend the life of landfills by reducing waste going to the sites.

Because of the positive response from the community, Amity Study Club members are planning to host additional e-waste days in the future. Pattillo indicated that the project could not have happened without the generous support of the City of Atlanta and the Atlanta Fire Department and hopes that future recycling events can continue to be held at the convenient downtown location of the AFD buildings.

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