Pennsylvania DEP Offers Free Workshops in Allentown for Automobile Recyclers Interested in Mercury Switch Removal Program

HARRISBURG, Pa., June 3 -- The Department of Environmental Protection, AERC Recycling Solutions, Bethlehem Apparatus Co. Inc., Clean Air Council, Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, Pennsylvania Automotive Recycling Trade Society and Steel Recycling Institute invite automobile recyclers to participate in Pennsylvania's Mercury Switch Removal Program.

Two workshops will take place on Tuesday, June 7 at Kress Auto Recyclers, 1213 N. Plymouth St., Allentown, Lehigh County. The first session will take place from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., and the second will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Attendance is free. Registration is not necessary.

"Pennsylvania automobile recyclers and other eligible businesses are encouraged to be a part of this important initiative," Environmental Protection Secretary Kathleen A. McGinty said. "Working together to remove mercury switches from salvaged cars will help to protect public health, prevent land contamination and improve air and water quality in Pennsylvania."

The goal of the program, launched last November, is to recycle at least 600 pounds of mercury through a voluntary two-year program that encourages the removal of mercury-containing switches from "end of life" vehicles.

Any automobile recycler or eligible business --- shredders and auto repair shops, for example --- in the Commonwealth can apply for the program. Registered businesses will receive free informational materials, training and removal guidance, safety equipment, free shipping and mercury-switch recycling, and a $1 incentive per mercury switch recycled.

Mercury switches were installed for convenience lighting in the trunk, hood and other interior areas of automobiles, as well as in anti-lock braking systems, prior to phaseout in 2003 models. If mercury-containing switches are not removed before automobiles are recycled, the mercury is emitted into the air during the smelting process and, through deposition, ends up in waterways.

In the environment, mercury is transformed into methylmercury, which accumulates through the food chain. Once mercury enters the environment, it can remain as an active toxin for more than 10,000 years. This endangers pregnant women, children, subsistence fishermen and recreational anglers who are most at risk for health effects that include brain and nervous system damage in children and heart and immune system damage for adults.

To participate in the Pennsylvania Mercury Switch Removal Program, or for more information about the program and workshops, visit the department's Web site at http://www.dep.state.pa.us/, Keyword: "Mercury Switch."