Over the past decades, there has been a drastic change in the lifestyle of people. 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 on a daily basis. A survey by 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 percent of e-waste produced is going into incinerators and landfills, instead of being recycled. It is important to understand the serious problems posed by continuous generation of e-waste and their management.
What is e-waste?
E-waste is the acronym for electronic waste and describes used, discarded electrical and electronic items. Any used electrical or electronic device that is available for reuse, recycling, resale or disposal is also categorized as e-waste. If these devices are not processed properly, it results in pollution of environment. The rate at which people are using electronic devices ensures that 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 e-waste management is recycling it. Any electronic gadget or appliance, right from tablets to television can be recycled. These dumped products are brought together, and their useful parts and components are gathered together. These parts are then processed for recycling.
- Instead of throwing 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 very 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 your old device and get a new one. While purchasing new gadgets, ask the store if they can take your old equipment in exchange of new one.
- Batteries are also part of e-waste. So, make sure that you dispose car, laptop or mobile phone batteries in an environment-friendly manner.
- Extend the life of your electronic devices by using them with care and ensuring proper maintenance. Avoid overcharging the battery and schedule regular service of the device. Keep your device clean and safe at all times. More the life of a device, less will be the amount of e-waste generated.
- Look out for local recycling centers in your town or cities. No matter in which city you reside, there will always be few options of people dealing in electronic waste recycling. Give your old, not working devices to these centers 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. Group together all the electronic and electrical appliances you no longer use and drop them off at the e-waste drop off point. This is the most efficient way of getting rid of e-waste. Alternatively, a Skip Bin Company such as Best Price Skip Bins can 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 them well and keep the environment safe!