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Why is E-Waste Dangerous?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Electronic waste, also called e-waste, has become an issue of serious concern to environmentalists as a growing number of electronic items are discarded in landfills every year. Many consumers are not aware that electronics like computers and cell phones actually contain toxins that can leach out into the soil and damage the environment. The problem is further compounded by the fact that many of the elements used in the construction of consumer electronics are quite valuable, leading companies to attempt to recover them from abandoned electronics, and discard unwanted parts in a manner which is unsafe.

Several nations have enacted laws about e-waste to try and keep it out of landfills, or in landfills which are equipped to handle toxic materials. The heavy metals in e-waste such as lead, cadmium, and mercury pose serious environmental and health risks. While many consumers are trained to think of things like cathode ray tubes as dangerous articles that require special disposal, most do not connect cell phones, for example, with beryllium, a toxic heavy metal which can cause severe damage to the lungs. In addition to the toxins it contains, e-waste also takes a very long time to biodegrade, which means that it will be taking up landfill space for centuries.

Cell phones contain toxins which can leach out into soil.
Cell phones contain toxins which can leach out into soil.

The question of what to do with e-waste is a serious one. In the first world, many companies have begun to take steps to reduce the amount of e-waste they create. Companies which manufacture electronics are starting to take items back when they have outlived their usefulness so that usable elements like copper can be safely removed and the rest of the electronics can be safely disposed of. However, a large portion of unwanted electronics in the first world are being shipped to the Third World.

Cathode ray tubes should be disposed of properly.
Cathode ray tubes should be disposed of properly.

Sometimes this e-waste is shipped under the guise of humanitarian reasons, arguing that old technology can still help bridge the gap between first and third world. Slow laptops which are not wanted in the United States, for example, might make a big difference to someone living in Africa. However, much of this equipment actually arrives in an unusable and broken state, and people desperate for money try to harvest usable materials such as valuable metals from donated equipment. Unfortunately, most of these individuals lack training in how to handle the dangerous materials used in electronics manufacture, and expose themselves and their communities to toxic chemicals and metals.

Soil can become contaminated with heavy metals from discarded cell phones or computers.
Soil can become contaminated with heavy metals from discarded cell phones or computers.

In other cases, genuine e-waste is sent to third world countries, by the shipping container load. Many companies which claim to be “recycling” e-waste are actually sending the pollution to other countries. Piles of unwanted consumer electronics accumulate by the side of the road and in third world landfills, leaching toxins into the soil and groundwater which cause crop deficiencies, birth defects, and serious illnesses. A handful of environmentally responsible companies have begun to speak out against this practice, and are taking action to dispose of e-waste safely, assisted by governments, which have started demanding that e-waste processing fees accompany the sale of new consumer electronics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is e-waste and why is it considered dangerous?

E-waste has been linked to the development of birth defects.
E-waste has been linked to the development of birth defects.

E-waste, or electronic waste, refers to discarded electronic devices. It's dangerous because it contains toxic substances like lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can leach into the environment. According to the United Nations, globally, we generate about 50 million tons of e-waste annually, posing significant health and environmental risks if not properly managed.

How does e-waste affect human health?

When e-waste is improperly disposed of, toxic chemicals can contaminate soil and water, entering the food chain. Exposure to these substances can lead to serious health issues, including kidney damage, neurological problems, and increased risk of cancers. Workers in informal e-waste recycling facilities are particularly at risk due to inadequate protection.

What environmental problems are caused by e-waste?

E-waste contributes to air, water, and soil pollution. Harmful chemicals released from e-waste can damage ecosystems and biodiversity. For instance, when e-waste is burned, it releases dioxins which are highly toxic and can cause reproductive and developmental problems in wildlife, as well as disrupt plant growth and soil fertility.

Can e-waste be recycled, and how effective is this process?

Yes, e-waste can be recycled, and it's an effective way to recover valuable materials like gold, silver, and copper. However, the recycling process must be done correctly to prevent environmental contamination. The Global E-waste Statistics Partnership notes that only 20% of global e-waste is formally recycled, highlighting the need for improved recycling practices.

What can individuals do to reduce the dangers of e-waste?

Individuals can help by properly disposing of electronics at certified e-waste recycling centers, reducing consumption, and opting for repair or buying refurbished devices. Donating or selling functional electronics also extends their life and reduces waste. Awareness and choosing products designed for longevity can significantly mitigate e-waste dangers.

Are there any regulations in place to manage e-waste?

Many countries have implemented regulations to manage e-waste, such as the European Union's Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive, which holds manufacturers responsible for e-waste disposal. In the United States, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act governs e-waste management. However, global regulations vary, and enforcement is often challenging, necessitating stronger international frameworks.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllThingsNature researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllThingsNature researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon284143

Presently, electronic waste is regarded as the biggest global problem because of its harmful effects to our environment.

Due to the rapid transformation of technological innovations making our everyday life less difficult and on hand everywhere, anytime, that resulted in the increase of e-wastes in the world.

I'm a concerned citizen who would like to campaign on the 3 big R's the "reduce, reuse and recycle" to help save our environment for human destruction. Beneficial information dissemination is essential for all to properly discard our high tech gadgets such as cell phones, notebooks and other digital equipments.

Wonderful write-up. I did learn a lot and it would surely help our planet. Keep on posting your brilliant ideas. Thanks!

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    • Cell phones contain toxins which can leach out into soil.
      By: arska n
      Cell phones contain toxins which can leach out into soil.
    • Cathode ray tubes should be disposed of properly.
      By: Vasiliy Timofeev
      Cathode ray tubes should be disposed of properly.
    • Soil can become contaminated with heavy metals from discarded cell phones or computers.
      By: sakura
      Soil can become contaminated with heavy metals from discarded cell phones or computers.
    • E-waste has been linked to the development of birth defects.
      By: dacasdo
      E-waste has been linked to the development of birth defects.