The concern over discarded electronics results from the ever increasing magnitude of this waste stream and its contribution of heavy metals to municipal solid waste. CRTs are the prime components of computer monitors and televisions. They are manufactured of leaded glass to shield users from x-rays.
Technology does exist to recycle CRTs, but recycling is more expensive than landfill diposal.
It has been suggested that if CRTs are required to be managed as a hazardous waste under U.S. regulations, than the economics may favor recycling. While CRTs are often referred to as hazardous wastes, there is no supporting evidence in the scientific literature. Project Status Work has been completed on the scope of work funded by the Florida Center. The results of this work are summarized in the final report. This report can be downloaded here as a PDF file.