People take the progress of technology for granted. They
don’t know what it takes to develop a new, more sophisticated tech device and
they certainly don’t think about where the malfunctioning or outdated electronic
devices go when they are not used any more. According to the official
statistics from the United Nations, there was more than 53 million tons of
electronic waste created in 2014 alone. What is even worse, this amount grows
for at least 15% each year because the lifespan of electronic devices is
reduced. Despite these facts, it seems that the vast majority of people don’t
know what e-waste is and what we should do with it. Here’s a list of things you
should know about e-waste.
1. What
is considered e-waste?
Electronic waste or e-waste is a term used to describe all
non-functional, obsolete and discarded electronic or electric devices that have
electric elements of battery power. Some of the most common elements of e-waste
include computers, cell phones, monitors, printers, radios, fridges etc.
2. What
happens to e-waste?
E-waste is handled in few different ways. Unfortunately most
of the e-waste today is disposed on landfills (especially in developing
countries) where people buy it as scrap metal or burn it which leads to
pollution. The good news is that e-waste recycling is becoming more and more
popular.
3. What
are the benefits of proper disposal?
E-waste includes many toxic and dangerous elements, but it
also contains valuable materials. A single device can have up to 60 different
materials. If they are processed in the right way, the materials can be used
again. Some of the harmful materials found in common electronic devices include
lead, mercury, beryllium etc. Valuable
materials include silver, gold, copper etc.
4. How
can we use e-waste
The previously mentioned metals found in e-waste can be used
for the production of the same of different devices if they are extracted and
treated in the right way. This can be a very profitable business.
5. Where
to leave e-waste
As previously mentioned, the best place to leave e-waste is
at recycling plants. Individuals and organizations can use the Internet to find
the closest recycling plant in their area.
6. How
to find a reliable collector
Unfortunately, there are many e-waste recycling companies
that are looking for fast profit and although they pose as recycling companies
they actually ship the waste in developing countries. It is crucial to do some
research before using the services of e-waste recycling plants.
7. The
laws related to e-waste are different and constantly changing
When we talk about the United States it is good to mention
that the laws are different in each state and some states have stricter rules.
It is also good to mention that these laws are changing so companies and
individuals must follow these changes.
8. Trade-ins
are becoming quite popular
Many tech companies are promoting trade-ins. This is a good
way to raise awareness of the importance of proper care of e-waste.
9. Guiyu,
China is the place with highest amount of e-waste
Dubbed as e-waste capital of the world, the city of Guiyu in
China is literally covered with e-waste and similar wastes.
. People
lack information about e-waste
Many experts agree that the public doesn’t get enough
information about e-waste which makes the situation worse.
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