One consequence of the switch from analog to high-definition TV broadcasts (set to happen in just 13 months) is that a lot of TV sets suddenly won't work, unless consumers get a set-top box that'll downgrade the HDTV signal. This likely means a lot of TV sets will be stored on the curb over the next decade. But rather than just throwing out that old 13-inch black-and-white, you can try and get a few bucks ($100, actually) for it to trade up to a new HDTV.

From now until March 15, 2008, Sony is offering a $100 coupon toward the purchase of a new BRAVIA high-definition TV at Sony Style stores in exchange for any TV brought in for recycling. The Sony Take Back Recycling Program, a partnership with WM Recycle America eCyling, has been running for a couple of months, but I hadn't heard much about it until now. Maybe the big S didn't want to break the bank by giving out the Benjamins.

I should also mention that the set you're trading in doesn't have to be a Sony. So even though $100 off a Sony TV won't soften the blow if you really weren't ready to make the upgrade to HDTV, at least the old CRT won't end up in a landfill.

Post by Peter Suciu