The revolution in tech and electronics-
The technological revolution has brought about changes in how people live their lives and communicate, as well as brought individuals from different parts of the world together.
We are a generation that is completely consumed by technology despite living in a time when technological advancements are at an all-time high. We have a wide variety of technological devices, ranging from our home appliances to our desktop computers and portable laptops to our constantly updated mobile phones.
We upgrade our electronic devices nearly as frequently as we do our wardrobes. When a newer and better version of a device is out, we toss out the one we have and purchase a replacement.
The term “e-waste” refers to electronic items that are approaching the “end of their useful life” and is used in a colloquial sense. The following are examples of common electronic products: computers, televisions, videocassette recorders, stereos, photocopiers, and fax machines. Most of these products can be recycled, repurposed, or reconditioned to be reused.
Some examples of e-waste-
- Old CRT tube televisions.
- LCD, OLED, and Plasma televisions.
- LCD monitors, smart displays, and tablets.
- Laptops with LCD monitors.
- OLED desktop monitors, laptops, and tablets.
- Computers, Computer monitors, and Printers.
- VCRs.
- Portable DVD players with video screens.
Why e-waste is so crucial?
Recycling electronic waste has a wide variety of beneficial applications. Include things like preventing these gadgets from ending up in landfills, which is beneficial to both human and environmental health. Or providing manufacturers with recycled metals that may be used in the production of new items while recovering valuable components from within the devices themselves that still have some utility.
As per data curated by-
Source- https://www.theworldcounts.com/stories/electronic-waste-facts
Below are some of the facts about e-waste: –
- We generate around 40 million tons of electronic waste every year, worldwide. That’s like throwing 800 laptops every second.
- An average cell phone user replaces their unit once every 18 months.
- E-waste comprises 70% of our overall toxic waste.
- Only 12.5% of E-Waste is recycled.
- 85% of our E-Waste is sent to landfills and incinerators are mostly burned and release harmful toxins in the air!
- Electronics contain lead which can damage our central nervous system and kidneys.
- A child’s mental development can be affected by low-level exposure to lead.
- The most common hazardous electronic items include LCD desktop monitors, LCD televisions, Plasma Televisions, TVs, and computers with Cathode Ray Tubes.
- E-waste contains hundreds of substances, of which many are toxic. This includes mercury, lead, arsenic, cadmium, selenium, chromium, and flame retardants.
- 80% of E-Waste in the US and most other countries are transported to Asia.
- 300 million computers and 1 billion cell phones go into production annually. It is expected to grow by 8% per year.
The negative impact of e-waste-
Our E-Waste is often dumped in Asia or Africa. This isn’t the “recycling” we envision. E-waste harms you, the earth, and landfill workers.
E-Waste is buried or burned in landfills, polluting land, air, and water. Workers in poor countries recover precious metals from abandoned devices.
E-Waste workers average $1.50 per day. They’re unprotected while handling dangerous materials. They inhale poisons generated by burning electronic parts. Children are among these employees.
How do we dispose of our personal e-waste?
- If your cell phone is outdated or old, you can donate it to someone needy or who doesn’t have a cell phone at all.
- If your mobile phone is damaged, you can repair it and sell it to someone else or share it with your friends.
- If you have any other electronic item which cannot be repaired or refurbished then find a certified recycler and hand it over to them to stop going to landfills
Let’s act responsibly!!
