Electronic Waste
The generic term ‘electronic waste’ covers all archaic or discarded electronic devices and technology including consumer electronic products, computer and many more. Computers become obsolete with the arrival of new fashionable models and advanced features.
Hazards of e-waste:
Computers have dramatically enhanced the quality of our life but simultaneously produced millions of tons of electronic garbage over the years. E-waste is increasing at an alarming rate, which is three times more than household garbage. In addition, e-waste contains hazardous substances such as cadmium, antimony, beryllium, copper, lead, arsenic, chromium, mercury, zinc and nickel that have detrimental impact on environment and human population. Metals, glass, plastics can be easily recycled. Unfortunately, over 70 percent of electronic debris (approximately 3.2 million tons), wind up in landfill and are never recycled.
Toxins in E-waste
Computers contains up to 1,000 poisonous substances that can damage kidneys, nervous system, and increase the risk of different kinds of cancer.
Mercury is found in LCD screen backlights, laptops and printed circuit boards. If consumed thorough food chain, contaminants accumulate in our body and may result into various organs’ failure. Some research organizations have found that mercury severely affects a baby’s nervous system; disrupts normal functioning of heart; and causes mental impairment in children. Cadmium in semiconductors and chip resistors may cause various types of cancer. Brominated Flame Retardants in printed circuit boards increases the chances of cancer; it may cause endocrine disruption and negatively affect the development of infants. Lead on printed circuit boards and computer monitor glass may interrupt blood systems and damage central nervous system.
Prevention of electronic wastes
Most of us do not prefer using computes until the end of its life. We want to have the newer and upgraded versions and keep contributing to e-wastes.
Users can recycle their obsolete computes to reputable and accountable recyclers for reuse; Donating computers to the charitable schools or churches are appreciable if the equipment is reasonably new and in good condition.
The disposal of computer equipment should be executed in environment friendly manner so that toxic metals do least harm to the environment and local health.