Obama Urges Congress for Energy Incentives

President Obama wants Congress to back energy efficiency incentives for Americans in order to create green jobs and save energy. ‘Cash for caulkers’ would include consumer rebates for households that make energy efficient retrofits.

Speaking to workers at a Home Depot near Washington DC, Obama said the temporary incentives will stimulate consumer spending because people will buy materials from stores like the “do-it yourself” home improvement store.

In order to fight double-digit unemployment numbers, Obama is also recommending efforts to improve credit for small businesses and spending on transportation infrastructure.

Two Companies Pay Thousands in Fines

The Environmental Protection Agency says two companies who illegally exported computer monitor waste to Hong Kong have agreed to pay a $21,000 fine.

W&E International Trading and Better PC Recycle sent the shipment of over 500 discarded computer monitors to Hong Kong without the country’s permission.

Computer monitors contain cathode ray tubes, which typically contain enough toxic lead to be classified as hazardous waste. CRT’s may also contain mercury and arsenic.

The companies violations include failing to notify the EPA about the electronic waste as well as failing to package or label the monitors correctly. The EPA says the companies have agreed to dismantle the CRTs at a permitted US facility.

Why is it important to properly dispose of electronic waste?

Electronic waste, or e-waste, contains harmful toxins that if left in landfills, can leach into the groundwater and negatively impact humans, animals, and the environment.