According to Gartner Group research, the world’s leading information technology research and advisory company, electronics or e-waste is the fastest-growing part of our waste stream today. Millions of computers, TV’S, cellar phones, microwaves, VCRs, DVD players, Fax machines, Mice and keyboards end up in U.S. landfills each year. That is an estimated 2 million tons. Studies show that up to 80% of the 400,000 tons of e-waste is shipped overseas to third-world countries or other developing nations to be redistributed or disassemble for the components or metals to be recycled.
The environmental importance of recycling e-waste prevents electronics that have been placed in a landfill, incinerated or illegally dumped from releasing toxic chemicals such as lead, cadmium and mercury into the soil, ground water and air. In certain areas in China, groundwater has become so polluted around landfills; water must be shipped in from 20 miles away-all a direct result of introducing e-waste into landfills.
What can I E-cycle?
· Televisions
· Computer Monitors
· Computers(Desktop, laptops, netbooks and tablet computers)
· DVDs, DVD players, VCRs
· Mice and Keyboards
· Speakers
· Modems
· Hard Drives
· Mobile devices
· Cellphones
E-cycling begins with you and it is as easy as hitting the power button on your computer. Companies like Dell developed the nation’s first completely free recycling program for e-waste. Best Buy, Sony and Samsung have teamed up with manufactures to set up programs all across the country. These programs do not accept televisions which are the most expensive recycled product and is usually unpopular in the market to be refurbished. Other grass-root organizations are Basel, Computer TakeBack Campaign are just a few. Ebay took a large role in e-cycling by promoting its Rethink project with members such as Dell, IBM, Intel and Hewlett-Packard. To properly dispose of your used electronics, please contact your local municipalities to find out what guide lines are required.
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