What is e-waste?
E-waste, short for electronic waste, is any type of outdated appliance or electronic devices. Items that are considered e-waste include cell phones, televisions, computer monitors, printers, scanners, keyboards, mice, cables, circuit boards, clocks, flashlights, calculators, cameras, radios, batteries, DVD players, VCRs, MP3, CD players, toasters, coffee makers, microwave ovens, etc. Many of these products can be reused, refurbished, or recycled.Rapid changes in technology, changes in media, and planned obsolescence have resulted in a fast-growing surplus of electronic waste around the world.
Benefits of Recycling
Recycling these raw materials from unwanted electronics is the most effective solution to the growing e-waste problem. Most electronic devices contain a variety of materials, including metals that can be recovered for future uses. By dismantling and reusing these materials, natural resources are conserved and air and water pollution caused by hazardous disposal is avoided. Additionally, recycling reduces the amount of greenhouse gas emissions caused by the manufacturing of new products.