Super Bowl Signals End for Analog Television Broadcasts

Superbowl XLIII may be the last time some viewers enjoy the game on their old television sets that require rabbit ears to receive a signal.

As of Feb. 17, Congress has mandated that all television stations broadcast digitally, which means viewers using older televisions will need a converter box to keep receiving signals if they are not connected to cable or satellite. As a result, many viewers have to decide whether to purchase a converter box or whether to discard the set and purchase a new one.

“The best option environmentally is to purchase a converter box,” said IDEM Commissioner Thomas Easterly. “But if you do plan to discard a television instead, we strongly encourage you to take it to a reuse or recycling facility.”

Recycling unwanted televisions helps keep toxic materials out of the waste stream and provides the opportunity to recover valuable materials such as circuit boards, metal wiring, leaded glass and plastics.

As you leave the recycling center and head to the electronics store, the best type of television to purchase that also benefits the environment are those with the ENERGY STAR label. These televisions are up to 30 percent more efficient than other models. ENERGY STAR is a government-backed program helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through superior energy efficiency, and these products use less energy, save money, and help protect the environment.

Visit www.recycling.IN.gov to find an electronics reuse/recycling facility near you. To learn more environmentally-friendly tips, visit www.HoosiersCare.IN.gov. For more information on the digital TV transition, visit the Federal Communications Commission’s Web site at www.dtv.gov.