As technology continues to expand and evolve, so does our generation's consumption of electronics. We understand that items like smartphones, tablets, power banks, and chargers are essential devices for work or play, but have you ever stopped to think about what happens once these gadgets have reached their end of life?
Even the sturdiest built piece of technology has a set lifespan. If time doesn’t get them, wear and tear eventually will. So, where does our e-waste go to die? Where does it go and how does it impact the earth?
What Is E-Waste
E-waste, also known as electronic waste, is defined as any item of electrical equipment that’s become unwanted, nonfunctional, or obsolete. It may include refrigerators, laptop computers, cell phones, and accessories -- essentially anything that requires electricity to operate.
Unfortunately, with all the high-tech gadgets we rely on in everyday life comes an increased risk of environmental harm due to improper disposal. So why should we care about e-waste and its impacts? Let's take a closer look at this issue and explore the effects it has on our planet.
How Does E-Waste Impact Our Planet
It's estimated that by 2025 there will be over 1 billion tonnes worth of e-waste produced every year internationally – a stark reminder of our growing consumption habits and an unsustainable future for humanity.
What’s concerning is that this mountain of e-waste contains hazardous materials like lead, arsenic, Brominated Flame Retardants (BFRs), and plastics that leach toxic compounds into our soil and waterways. All of these can have serious implications on human health as well as cause damage to the atmosphere if not diverted from landfills.
What You Can Do With Your Obsolete Electronics
E-waste is increasingly impacting our environment in a detrimental way due to its sheer volume and toxic impact within waste streams. According to statistics, more than 50 million metric tons of e-waste is generated globally every year, with each person averaging some seven kilograms of electronic-related rubbish.
With recycling programs on the rise, we are diverting approximately 17% of obsolete or non-functioning electronics from landfills. These electronics are either processed within municipal waste management streams or disassembled and recycled into new products by consumer take back programs run by responsible tech companies.
Check out Green Pursuits Consumer Recycling Program for more information about how you not only get your e-waste to the proper recycling facility but also earn a 50% discount on new products.
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You can be sure that when you buy from Green Pursuit, you are making a sustainable purchase that will help the environment now and into the future.
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