Over the past decades, there has been a drastic change in people’s lifestyles. Technology and electronics have become an integral part of the everyday life. There are gadgets everywhere, right from homes to cars and offices. Technology has made lives easier, faster and a lot more convenient than before. But these benefits of technology have come with its fair share of disadvantages. Growing dependence on gadgets has increased the amount of e-waste produced daily. A survey by the United Nations reveals that more than 50 million tons of electronic waste is generated each year. Managing, disposing and treating this e-waste has become a serious concern for the administration. Almost 75 per cent of e-waste produced goes into incinerators and landfills instead of being recycled. It is important to understand the serious problems posed by the continuous generation of e-waste and its management.
What is e-waste?
E-waste is the acronym for electronic waste and describes used, discarded electrical and electronic items. Any electrical or electronic device that is used for reuse, recycling, resale, or disposal is also categorized as e-waste. If these devices are not processed properly, they will result in environmental pollution. The rate at which people are using electronic devices ensures that a large amount of e-waste is being generated every minute. Not just mobile and electronic devices, appliances like television sets, air conditioners, refrigerators and more also contribute to e-waste. Lead and other materials present have hazardous environmental effects, so simply dumping them into landfills is not the solution.
E-waste contains hazardous components like cadmium, brominated flame retardants, lead and more. Leaking of these materials into landfills can cause serious pollution problems.
Simple e-waste management tips
- One of the simplest ways of managing e-waste is recycling. Any electronic gadget or appliance, from tablets to televisions, can be recycled. Dumped products are gathered together, and their useful parts and components are gathered together. These parts are then processed for recycling.
- Instead of throwing away gadgets that you no longer use, it is better to donate them. Selling old gadgets may not always be an option, as the value you receive is much less. It is better to donate these using online websites or people around you. You can donate old laptops or computers to schools, social programs, or to people who cannot afford to buy them.
- Look for buy-back programs offered by several companies and brands. Thus, if you are upgrading your mobile, laptop, or tablet device, you can give up your old device and get a new one. While purchasing new gadgets, ask the store if they can take your old equipment in exchange for a new one.
- Batteries are also part of e-waste. So, make sure that you dispose of car, laptop, or mobile phone batteries in an environmentally friendly manner.
- Use your electronic devices with care and ensure proper maintenance. Avoid overcharging the battery and schedule regular device service. Keep your device clean and safe at all times. The longer a device’s life is, the less e-waste is generated.
- Look out for local recycling centres in your town or cities. No matter in which city you reside, there will always be few options for people dealing in electronic waste recycling. Give your old, not working devices to these centres for recycling instead of throwing them in the dustbin. Also, gain knowledge about the local recycling rules applicable in your city.
- Find an e-waste drop-off point in your city. Gather all the electronic and electrical appliances you no longer use and drop them off at the drop-off point. This is the most efficient way of getting rid of e-waste. Alternatively, we help dispose of any e-waste correctly.
With growing pollution levels, proper disposal of e-waste has become critical. Don’t let your electronic devices convert into hazards for the environment. Dispose of them well and keep the environment safe!