In the 21st century, a lot of people are using electronic devices in their daily lives. The explosive growth in the electronics industry, however, has led to a rapidly escalating issue of end-of-life (EOL) electronics. These electronic products often end up in landfills or are not managed properly. This article is going to introduce about E-waste and why is it a problem so that you guys have a better understanding of E-waste.
What is E-waste? E-waste are electronic products that are unwanted, obsolete and not working. Examples of household E-wastes are microwave, mobile phones, televisions, lamps and much more.
E-waste are becoming an issue and with that comes the need for effective electronics recycling programs. According to a report from World Economic Forum, E-waste is now the fastest growing waste stream in the world, with an estimated waste stream of 48.5 million tonnes in the year 2018.
E-waste are particularly dangerous due to the toxic chemicals, such as Beryllium, Cadmium, Mercury, and Lead inside them. When E-wastes are buried in a landfill, the toxic chemicals can dissolve in microscopic traces into the gross sludge that permeates at the landfill. Eventually, these traces of toxic materials will pool into the ground below the landfill and this is known as leaching. This pose a serious risks towards our environment as it affects soil, water, air and wildlife. According to a report, 75% of old electronics are stored in households because of the unavailability of convenient recycling options.
Be sure to check out the links below to learn more about E-waste!
Links:
Department of Environment Malaysia (E-waste): https://www.doe.gov.my/hhew/
Report from World Economic Forum: http://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_A_New_Circular_Vision_for_Electronics.pdf
General information about E-waste: https://www.ewaste1.com/what-is-e-waste/
Comments