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Pollution From Waste (animal, nuclear, trash)Report: Millions of children go to school near toxic sites: A coalition of environmental groups reports that millions of children in American schools are exposed daily to potentially dangerous chemicals from sites that once housed toxic waste dumps. The study, found at the Center for Health, Environment and Justice, recommends that, in addition to checking the safety of their children's schools, parents also should push for better construction guidelines for new schools. Monsanto found guilty in Alabama: In late February, 2002, Monsanto was found guilty of releasing tons of PCBs into Anniston, Ala., decades ago and then covering up its actions. PCBs are suspected of causing cancer and have been banned since the 1970s. The company settled a federal case in 2001 for $40 million. Mercury thermometers: Environmentalists, health groups and government officials are concerned about the potentially lethal mercury contained in mercury thermometers. When ingested or inhaled, mercury can damage the nervous system or cause birth defects in pregnant women exposed to it. In spring 2000, several cities banned the sale of mercury thermometers; some are staging "exchanges" in an effort to prevent people from disposing of mercury thermometers by flushing them down the toilet. In July, 2001, the American Academy of Pediatrics advised that parents and pediatricians not use mercury fever thermometers because of risks from accidental breakage. Discarded Computers and other electronic gadgets: A National Safety Council report estimates that by 2005, more than 379 million computers will be obsolete -- and could potentially contribute tons of toxic waste to the environment. There are other options:
Discarded Cell Phones: Wondering what to do with old cell phones? You can donate them to people who will give them to people at risk of domestic violence. Options include the police, women's shelter, or the Donate A Phone campaign, supported by RadioShack and sponsored by the Wireless Foundation, Motorola and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Another option is to give them to a Sprint store, which will replace parts and resell them in countries where older phones are in demand. The proceeds are then donated to Easter Seals and the National Organization on Disability. Also, for ideas, visit this U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Web site. Other organizations that have donation or recycle programs include Verizon Wireless Hopeline and Goodwill.
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