E-Waste: What is it, Why it’s an issue, and What you can do!
Spring 2021 — Special Topics #4
When you get new electronics, do you ever wonder where your old ones go? They become e-waste, which is defined as electronic equipment that has no value to its user. E-waste isn’t limited to just phones and laptops: it includes other electronics like printers, microwaves, and coffee makers. As society has become increasingly dependent on electronics, e-waste has become one of the fastest growing types of waste: according to The World Counts, annually, up to 50 million tons of e-waste are produced worldwide!
E-waste contains many harmful toxins and must be properly disposed of. However, many of the current processes and regulations for e-waste disposal present serious environmental and health hazards. For example, according to Time Magazine, only 19 states have laws banning electronics from regular garbage. In Nevada, a state without regulations for e-waste, old electronics often end up in garbage and recycling bins, and many recycling centers have reported more fires as a result. Furthermore, e-waste represents 2 percent of America’s trash, but represents over 70 percent of overall toxic waste according to Do Something. E-waste disposal is not just a domestic problem: a significant portion of e-waste from the US is exported to developing countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Pakistan. Oftentimes, e-waste disposal infrastructure in these countries is not properly established. For example, according to NPR, in Lagos, Nigeria, e-waste is often mechanically shredded or openly burned, which releases many toxic chemicals in the surrounding air, water, and soil. As a result, many people who live near e-waste disposal sites face respiratory problems, damage to the brain and nervous systems, and stunted growth in children.
So you might be wondering how you can properly dispose of old electronics. Here are some tips:
- Participate in trade-in or buy-back programs: Many electronics companies will offer to buy back old devices or will offer a discount when upgrading your electronics. For example, Best Buy offers a buy-back program in which they purchase old electronics from you. Through this program, Best Buy has collected over 2 billion pounds of e-waste!
- Donate to charity: For electronics that are still in working condition, consider donating them to local schools, non-profit organizations, or underserved communities. These devices can empower individuals while minimizing the environmental impact of e-waste.
- Be a conscious consumer: When purchasing new electronic devices, look for those that are made with fewer toxins, use recycled content, or offer take-back options. Some labels to look for include Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT) for electronics and the e-Stewards Certification or the R2/RIOS Certification for electronics recyclers.
- Check the CalRecycle website for e-waste recyclers near you: The CalRecycle website allows you to search for recyclers in the Covered Electronic Waste Recycling Program established by California’s Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003. Consider bringing your old electronics to a certified recycler!
- Stay informed: As our society continues to innovate, e-waste processes will constantly change and evolve. Keep up to date with developments in e-waste disposal and share information with your family and friends!
E-waste disposal is a pressing problem that needs to be addressed: as long as we use electronics, e-waste disposal will remain a pertinent issue! It’s important to properly dispose of e-waste whenever possible and to stay informed!
Author: Emily Su | Editors: Vivian Kuang and Smera Patil | Graphics: Natalie Chu | Team: Social Good
