About Consumer Electronics And The Environment
Consumer electronics run the gambit from personal computers and mobile phones, to MP3 players and televisions. What most do not think about when considering purchasing electronics is what they will do with them once they break or are no longer valuable. Every year, the United States alone generates almost 3 million tons of commodity and electronic waste (or e-waste) from the disposal of obsolete, defective or damaged devices. To get a better idea of where all that e-waste goes after it is thrown away and what it means to you and the environment, let’s do some investigation.
Because of the difficulty and cost of recycling electronics, as well as spotty enforcement of legislation regarding e-waste exports, vast amounts of used electronics have been sent to countries such as China, Kenya and India. Lower environmental standards and working conditions make processing e-waste more profitable yet dangerously hazardous in those countries. Being mindful of e-waste disposal is a big concern. There are facilities out there that specifically deal with this hazardous material correctly.
When electronics are handled and sorted properly, e-waste is a valuable source of secondary raw materials. However, they are a major contributor of toxins and carcinogens when clumsily treated. Fast paced technology changes, low initial cost and actual planned obsolescence have given way to a growing problem around the globe. Uncontrolled burning, disassembly without safety measures in place, and haphazard disposal practices are causing environmental and health problems.
PCBs, lead, mercury and cadmium make up the waste left over from consumer electronics. They are extremely toxic and studies have shown that PCBs can cause cancer. If not disposed of properly, then they can contaminate soil and water, eventually getting into the food chain. Toxic fumes are emitted when they are burned, causing not only depletion of the ozone, but health hazards from inhalation. Mercury, lead and cadmium affect the central nervous system, which can cause damage to cells, as well as renal failure.
When considering buying that new cordless phone, don’t forget to also consider what you will do with it once its usefulness has been exceeded. Is there a recycling center nearby where you can drop it off? Don’t forget that cordless phone batteries contain acid and lead and will also need to be disposed of properly. Consumer electronics contain cadmium, lead, mercury and PCBs. Improperly handled e-waste can leech into the soil and water table, causing serious health hazards.
By Phone Editor
