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3 On Your Side: Make Money With Old Electronics And Appliances

By Jim Donovan

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Earth Day is Sunday, are you planning to do anything good for the environment? 3 On Your Side Consumer Reporter Jim Donovan finds that you don't even have to get your hands dirty to make a difference, and you could end up with some extra cash in your pocket.

Consumer Reports is out with its latest list of ways you can rid yourself of old electronics sitting around your house in an environmentally-conscious way. If you want to earn a little green for going green, first try selling your unused electronics. Amazon, Craigslist and eBay are teeming with potential buyers.

Another option? Some retailers will actually let you trade-in your unwanted products in exchange for a gift card for the estimated value. Consumer Reports highlights Best Buy, Target, Amazon and Radio Shack for their programs. Popular manufacturers like Apple, Kodak and Sony also offer similar incentives.

Not looking to make a buck, but still want to be green? Why not donate anything that is in good working order to a charity so that someone else can use it? Certain charities only accept certain items, so be sure to check out their websites. And be sure to get a receipt so that you can declare your donation on your taxes.

Finally, if your gadgets no longer work, bring them to a recycling center where they will be disposed of properly. This advice applies to appliances, too.

If you have an old refrigerator, freezer, and in some cases, even an old window air conditioner, electric companies like PPL, PECO, PSE&G and JCP&L are among those that have rebate programs where they'll come pick up certain items and give you anywhere from $15 to $50 to purchase a more energy efficient model or spend on something else.

For more, visit Jim's blog.

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