As technology advances with each passing day, new gadgets and devices come out and people tend to upgrade their outdated models. Old and discarded phones, laptops, printers, TVs, batteries, etc. come under electronic or e-waste. Most electronics consist of harmful substances like mercury, cadmium, lead, etc.
If we don't handle and dispose of this waste currently, it can pollute the environment, deplete natural resources, and cause health issues to humans. From 2019 to 2020, global e-waste went up by 60% and it is vital to slow this down.
Through better management, using refurbished electronics, reuse and recycling, and switching to zero waste electronics, we can contribute to eco-friendly disposal of electronic waste. Further, we'll talk about sustainable management and disposal of electronic waste in an eco-friendly way.
Where Does E-Waste Go?
There are lots of chemicals like beryllium, cadmium, mercury, flame retardants, lead, etc. in electronic waste. When we throw away or dispose of devices and electronics, they tend to pollute the air, contaminate the soil, and leach into various water bodies. As we deposit this waste inside a landfill, water passes through them and harmful substances leach into the water.
This water further converges with the natural groundwater and contaminates it. As a result, drinking water can also get toxic and become really harmful for humans. Some recyclers ship electronic waste overseas where they are buried underground. People try to earn money by hunting copper, iron, silver, etc. from this waste and it can be toxic for their bodies.
Disposing E-Waste in a Responsible & Eco-Friendly Manner
Electronics have become a vital part of our daily routine and it is impossible to live without them. Right from work to entertainment, people use a variety of gadgets worldwide. As a result, we cannot stop the generation of electronic waste. However, we can reduce it and make sure to dispose it properly
Try to Reduce Electronic Waste Generation
The most important thing for all of us is to generate lower amounts of electronic waste so that we can manage it properly. Schools, colleges, government offices, hospitals, etc. use lots of devices and steps must be taken to reduce the amount of waste this produces.
Instead of upgrading whenever a new technology comes up, you can extend the life of your current devices. Also, you can consider using zero waste electronics like refurbished laptops or desktops to reduce the waste generated. The amount of waste goes up when people buy new gadgets and discard old ones.
Trade-In Old Devices or Use Manufacturer's Take-Back Policy
When you are about to purchase a new computer or any other gadget, instead of throwing away your old device, you can consider trading it in. Many sellers and retailers offer a discount and other benefits when you trade your old device when buying a new one. You can save money and your old device can be reused or recycled instead of getting thrown away as e-waste.
You can check with the manufacturer of your device if they offer a take-back program or policy for customers. If present, you can just send your old device to the manufacturer instead of disposing it off. Manufacturers will recycle the device and its parts if possible, or they will dispose of it in an eco-friendly way.
Reuse Devices or Sell Them
Instead of just buying a new laptop, you can try upgrading your current one to the latest technology and use it for an extended time period. This way, you will save money and generate a lower amount of electronic waste. Another great option is going for refurbished laptops instead of buying brand new ones.
Get in touch with your friends and family members and sell your old devices to anyone who may need them. You can even list used gadgets on online platforms like eBay and sell them at a decent price. This reduces people’s need of buying new devices and parts from outdated devices can be used in refurbished electronics.
Consider Recycling of Electronic Waste
If you are finding it hard to donate or reuse electronics, then the best option is to recycle. Get in touch with recyclers that follow top ethical and environmental standards related to e-waste. Make sure they have access to proper equipment, permits, and procedures to recycle waste efficiently and safely.
Certified recyclers can recover materials like copper, silver, etc. and ensure proper disposal of harmful substances. Through recycling of e-waste, you can ensure conservation of natural resources, reduce emission of toxins, and protect our environment.
Consider Donating Old Gadgets
Think of donating your used gadgets to schools, universities, charities, community centers, or others who may need them. Several colleges and schools require computers in good condition so that students can use them for education. You can also donate to the underprivileged and needy people who cannot afford purchasing such gadgets.
This is a great way as you won’t have to throw your electronics away and they can come in handy to people who actually need them. Something that you don’t require anymore can change someone’s life for good and help them in their career.
Conclusion
Electronic waste is on the rise and if we want to protect our health as well as our environment, it is important to dispose of it in a sustainable and eco-friendly manner.
Make sure to follow the steps we discussed above and try using zero waste electronics and refurbished laptops to reduce e-waste. Also, monitor and improve disposal methods so that it is efficient, effective, and sustainable.
