"About 8 million Americans use CPAP machines every night for sleep apnea. Dealing with the electronics, plastic tubing, and silicone masks from these devices has created a major waste problem. In most places, CPAP machines are considered electronic waste, so throwing them in the trash is usually illegal. The compressor inside has circuit boards with lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can pollute soil and water if not handled properly."
"Wellness, Sleep and Circadian Network (WSCN). Formerly the American Sleep Apnea Association, WSCN accepts gently used CPAP devices in good working condition from smoke-free homes. Machines must be data-capable and include an SD card. The program also accepts unopened supplies in original packaging. Donors pay shipping costs and receive a tax letter. Note that WSCN no longer accepts Philips Respironics machines due to a 2021 recall."
About 8 million Americans use CPAP machines nightly, creating large quantities of device components and disposable accessories. CPAP devices are typically classified as electronic waste; compressors contain circuit boards with lead, mercury, and cadmium that can contaminate soil and water if mishandled. Masks, tubing, and cushions are made from medical-grade silicone and plastics like PVC or polycarbonate that do not biodegrade in landfills. Mask cushions are often replaced monthly and tubing every six to twelve months, producing frequent accessory waste; nearly 100 million cushions could be discarded annually. Functional machines under five to six years old may be donated to nonprofits that accept devices and supplies with specific requirements.
Read at Earth911
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