We went shopping for a new TV a few weeks ago and if you’ve ever done the same, you know how it goes. You walk into the electronics section and are instantly drawn to the wall of flat-screen LCD and Plasma TVs. The high-definition pictures are full of eye-catching clarity, and the flat panels are amazingly thin. Flat-screen TVs are definitely popular, but one point consumers don’t pause to consider is how they affect the environment.

According to an ABC News article posted in July 2008, nitrogen trifluoride (NF3), used in the production of flat-screen TVs, is 17,000 times stronger than carbon dioxide. We all know that carbon dioxide contributes to global warming and the disintegration of the atmosphere, raising a grave concern as to the destructive nature of nitrogen trifluoride. 4,000 tons of this gas is used each year in the production of flat-screen TVs and monitors, and with increased demand, that amount is expected to increase quickly and dramatically. Because it is a relatively new greenhouse gas, its damaging effects are not yet known. From what scientists do know about NF3, they are very concerned as to what the long-term repercussions will be. Something to think about before you swipe that credit card and treat yourself to the allure of flat-screen convenience.

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