E-Waste

What is it?
Electronic Waste or better known as E-Waste can be defined as discarded computers, mobile
devices, or nay electronic device. This definition includes used electronics which are destined
for reuse, resale, salvage, recycling, or disposal.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_waste





Statistics:
The United National Environment Program (UNEP) predicts that by the year 2020, e-waste from
cell phones in China will be seven times greater than what is was in the year 2007. They also
predict that the e-waste from old computers will be five times greater than what is was in 2007.

http://www.electronicstakeback.com/2013/06/24/new-epa-report-shows-we-are-generating-
more-e-waste-but-also-recycling-more/
http://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/e-waste-mounting-in-developing-countries-un-1.971122
Old computers, electronics, and other e-waste are often sent out to developing countries in
Asia such as China, Japan and India. Large amounts of e-waste are also being exported to Africa,
specifically Ghana.
http://www.greenpeace.org/international/en/campaigns/toxics/electronics/the-e-waste-
problem/where-does-e-waste-end-up/
Why is E-Waste a problem?
Old electronics arent as harmless as people think they are, they contain some very toxic
substances such as mercury, lead, cadmium, arsenic, beryllium, and brominated flame
retardants. When the electronics are burned at low temperatures, they create even more
toxins then they already contain such as halogenated dioxins and furans. These toxic
substances are known to cause cancer, reproductive disorders, endocrine disruption, and many
other health problems.
http://www.e-stewards.org/the-e-waste-crisis/

http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/tech/products/environment/2008-07-06-ewaste-
recycling_N.htm?csp=34
Where does this E-Waste go?
Unfortunately, only a small percentage of e-waste is actually recycled. In the U.S only 11-14% of
e-waste is actually recycled; most of it is often dumped or burned. An estimated 70-80% of the
e-waste thats given to recyclers is exported to countries with developing economies.
http://www.e-stewards.org/the-e-waste-crisis/
Is there a solution?
1. Donate.
Give an operable computer to a local family, friend, school, or nonprofit such as Goodwill or
Technology Training Foundation.
Computers for Schools

For a list of recipients, visit www.sharetechnology.org or www.usedcomputer.com.


2. Recycle.
A number of websites offers links to recycling centers:
International Association of Electronics Recyclers

Electronic Industries Alliance

Electronics Recycling Initiative
3. Involve businesses.
The IBM PC Recycling Service allows consumers and businesses to recycle any computer for a
small fee, including shipping. Hewlett Packard offers a similar service. Or businesses can consult
with a company such as Newtech Recycling, which provides equipment resale, donations, or
recycling.
www.ibm.com/ibm/environment/products

www.hp.com/hpinfo/globalcitizenship/environment

www.newtechrecycling.com