According to Boren of Independent News UK (2014), there are more electronic gadgets than people worldwide. This may or may not be surprising news for others, but if you think about it, more and more electronic products are being purchased now than ever before. Also, the connection between the vast evolution of modern technology and the upgrade needed for those advancements is parallel to each other. This means: there is a significant number of outdated models of different electronic devices, such as computers and mobile phones, that require disposal. Unfortunately, most of them end up in the trash, creating e-waste. It may not seem that big of a deal once you improperly dispose of these materials because they’re “just trash,” but believe us, it is more than you think. E-waste emits harmful substances that are dangerous to anyone that ingests it when not disposed of properly. Read more to find out more about proper e-waste management.
What is e-waste? Why should you bother throwing them properly?
As briefly explained above, e-waste is the term for daily electronic items that are no longer wanted. This covers functional and damaged things that are discarded in the trash or given to charity. Furthermore, hazardous substances are present in these equipment. Hence, if these objects are not properly disposed of, they could represent a safety concern to humans, animals, and the environment. In addition to polluting the environment, hazardous wastes can also poison the air and contaminate water sources.
Here are several substances that can be found within electronics:
- Cadmium is a metal used in contacts, switches, and rechargeable computer batteries.
- Mercury is a component of switches, batteries, fluorescent lamps, and liquid crystal displays (LCDs) found in mobile phones and flat-screen computer monitors.
- Cathode ray tubes (CRTs), used in computer and television screens, are made of lead.
- Hexavalent chromium is used to make various metal housings.
- Rechargeable batteries used in video game consoles and electric toys contain lead and cadmium.
With the unknown amount of chemicals in a single device, imagine how dangerous it would be for all of us once these chemicals are simultaneously exposed to our environment. Additionally, improperly disposed electronics risks dangerous substances getting into vast bodies of water sources. So do him, her, them, everyone, and the environment, a favor and properly dispose of your e-waste!
How can I dispose of my electronics properly? Are there recycling ways to consider?
REUSE DEVICES
Since we are aware that people will continue to purchase new technology – like the new iPhone 14 – it is advisable to recycle previous versions rather than throw them away. Reusing gadgets and beating the temptation of joining the bandwagon will significantly reduce the e-waste we already have in this world.
SELL IT
There are a ton of marketplace communities online that actively buys and sells objects in the local area. Electronic devices, either the latest model or a vintage one, are among the more popular ones people look for in the store. Putting your unwanted but still usable device on sale is a very smart move. The frugal squad approves of this.
GO TO A RECYCLER OR TECH COMPANY
Identify the groups in your local area that assists with the recycling of used gadgets. Also, tech companies have established recycling and trade-in programs in their stores. They can also trade discounts on new purchases for old recycled devices.
DONATE IT TO CHARITY
Another alternative on what to do if you have an electronic device you no longer need but is still functional apart from selling it is to give it to charity. In this way, you’re simultaneously saving the environment from future e-waste contributions and helping those unfortunate ones.
HAVE IT HAULED BY TRIDENT JUNK REMOVAL
This may seem biased, but hiring a junk removal company, like us, to take care of your e-waste is recommended. You don’t have to worry about where your electronics will end up and how badly they will damage the environment. With one call (dial 760-871-8794), our team will do everything for you, ensuring your safety plus the environment.
Sources: There are officially more mobile devices than people in the world | The IndependentKnow your electronics – Chemicals In Our Life – ECHA
