PC poison

Did you know what's actually in computers that's so environmentally toxic?
The more than 315 million computers that became obsolete by 2004 contained:

1.2 billion pounds of lead
2 million pounds of cadmium
400 000 pounds of mercury
In addition, 112 million pounds of valuable materials, including steel, glass, plastic and precious metals, were recovered for reuse.

source: Dalbey Education Institute

The Dalbey Education Institute and Executive Recycling had a recycling event in Westminister a couple of weekends ago. I'm sure they will have more coming up.

Today's tip: Next time you need to get rid of an old PC check them out. This is your chance to do something good for the Earth at the same time.

10 cents plastic bags charge

The other day I read in the Rocky Mountain news about a proposal from BetterbagsColorado to charge grocery store shoppers 10 cents for every plastic or paper bag they use to carry home their groceries. I think it's a good idea, in Sweden and in other European countries they charge for the bags. We really should be reusing our old bags and bring fabric bags instead. But, I can also understand the opponent saying more people will buy sandwish bags and trash cans bags, because they usually reuse the plasticbags for this purpose. But this is only speculations. By raising 10 cents per bag, it will make people aware of the environment and it will be an ouch in the wallet, but next time you will make sure you bring your own bags. I'm considering purchase one of those bags on wheels, well yes it seems old fashioned, but in Europe they have manufactured awesome cool ones, they look real hip. I'm sure I can find them here too. I will start looking.

Today's tip: look into your closet and see what you can find to carry home your groceries.