We live in an era where our lives are surrounded by different types of electronic devices. Moreover, most of us have a desire to upgrade every few years to enjoy the latest innovations. Unfortunately, when we start using the latest device, the older one is inevitably discarded. This is where responsible management of e-waste comes in.
In simple words, electronic or e-waste may be referred to as any electronic product or component that has come to the end of its usable life cycle. As per reliable information, approximately 2 Mt of electronic waste is generated per year. This annual rate of e-waste generation is gradually increasing every year. Unfortunately, less than 20% of this electronic waste is properly collected, segregated, and recycled.
Unfortunately, many electronic devices contain toxic substance and this is why they should be handled with care, even when they are no longer in use. Improper disposal of e-waste is a serious threat to our natural ecosystems as well as public health. Toxic chemicals released from these wastes have significant negative impact on air, water, as well as soil.
Impact on the Environment
The Geneva Environment Network informs that the materials and elements used for manufacturing electronic devices have multiple harmful impacts on our planet. When they are dumped into landfills, these toxic materials get soaked into the ground, and it may continue for several years. This process becomes even more severe during warmer months when heated e-waste starts to discharge harmful compounds such as cadmium, lead, and beryllium into the air. Improper handling of these wastes can also release fine particles capable of travelling thousands of miles and causing serious health risks.
Once these toxic compounds are discharged, there is also a high probability of seepage into the groundwater, which is extremely detrimental to terrestrial as well as aquatic species. Once the groundwater gets contaminated, it is only a matter of time for the toxic materials to make their way into lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds that may be located miles away from a dumping site.
Dumping of e-wastes in landfills contaminates the surrounding soil with hazardous substances such as lead, cadmium, and mercury. This contamination is responsible for many different diseases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), exposure to e-waste can lead to serious health hazards like respiratory issues, irregular lung functions, premature birth, etc.
Dealing with E-Waste
One of the most effective and hassle-free ways to manage e-waste is to shred them. This method is extremely useful for the destruction of discarded solid-state drives, desktops, circuit boards, mainframe computers, mobile phones, etc. Many responsible organizations around the world are now investing in a shredder to destroy all their electronic waste on their own. This entire process can be handled in-house without any outsider involvement. Apart from protecting the environment, shredders are also important for safeguarding the personal information of your clients, suppliers, and employees.
If you are looking to manage your electronic waste responsibly, please get in touch with us at Mastershred. Our advanced range of e-waste shredders is extremely durable, reliable, and efficient.