Electronic waste, also called e-waste, is dumped on electronic devices, including mobile phones, computers, food processors, etc. Improper disposal of these products is causing damage to the environment and humans. With the increase in population, the usage of electrical devices is also increasing. The e-waste problem is also becoming threatening because people are throwing the products and buying new ones.
Impact on the Environment
1. Air pollution
Improper disposal of wires and blenders is degrading air quality, leading to air pollution. Scavengers burn wires, which leads to the release of hydrocarbons into the atmosphere.
2. Water Pollution
Electronic devices contain toxic and heavy metals such as lead and mercury. Due to the inappropriate disposal of devices, the poisonous metals leaks into the soil and reach groundwater. Many plants and animals die by drinking contaminated water from lakes and ponds. They even mix with water bodies, and humans unknowingly consume them.
3. Soil Pollution
Due to the leakage of toxic metals into the soil, it becomes poisonous. Plants consume this contaminated soil and get damaged. When humans and animals eat these plants containing poison, their health degrades. Like this, poison enters the food chain.
Ways To Reduce E-waste And Its Impacts
1. Sell or Donate Old Electronics
One of the best ways to reduce e-waste is by selling or donating the devices to needy people. You can sell online and earn something by selling rather than just dumping it. Also, the buyer will get the device they wanted at a lower price by doing this. Donating is another option. By doing so, the product will be utilized, and the receiver will feel good.
2. Dispose of E-waste properly
Proper disposal of e-waste is becoming mandatory with an increase in electronic devices. Recycling is the best option as old electronic parts are reused, and the energy required to produce new products is saved. Many companies like Samsung and Apple have started going with the option of recycling old devices for customers. Even nowadays, some e-waste recycling organizations extend free services in electronic waste management.
3. Repurpose
Before buying a new product, please give it a second thought.
If you need a new gadget?
Will it add value to your professional and personal life?
Evaluate the above interrogations and then decide between buying or not.
4. Learn to Repair Broken Electronics
Nowadays, most brands produce durable products that have worked well for years. However, it becomes your duty to take care of your possession so it does not wear out soon. You should use it carefully and clean it regularly. If, for some reason, it gets broken, you should learn how to repair it. Many videos are available on youtube these days teaching how to repair broken electronics.
5. Buy Environment-Friendly Electronics
Buying Energy star-rated electronics is the best choice that you can make as these devices are eco-friendly. They consume less energy and indirectly save the environment and resources from getting depleted. Next time, whenever you see someone doing improper disposal of e-devices, stop them and tell them their impacts. It is time to take action to protect resources and the environment.