Image by Photostock
Improper eWaste disposal is a huge problem in our world today, and it absolutely must be stopped. Luckily, there are plenty of organizations in place with an interest in stopping the improper disposal of electronic goods, which can otherwise be recycled or recovered for use again.
While it might seem commonplace or easy to simply trash that old laptop or ancient tube television, the improper disposal of such items leads to enormous environmental problems. Here are just a few facts that will show you exactly why improper eWaste disposal must be stopped:
- Between 20 and 50 million tons of eWaste is disposed of around the world each year
- According to Earth911.com, “Electronic waste accounts for 70 percent of the overall toxic waste currently found in landfills…”
- Electronic waste can leach chemicals like lead and mercury into the environment and ground water surrounding landfills
- It takes only a little bit of heavy metals and other toxins in the environment to make groundwater and soil dangerous for the animals and humans in the area
- Electronic waste is made mostly of components that don’t biodegrade, which means these items continue to take up valuable space in landfills
As you can see, there are several good reasons to stop improper eWaste disposal. Luckily, there are several simple ways to properly dispose of electronic waste like computers, televisions, and cell phones.
Disposing of Electronic Waste Properly
More and more companies that specialize in eWaste recycling are popping up these days. You no longer have to wait for your community recycling center’s one day a year for dropping off old appliances and electronics. Instead, simply find and electronics recycler near you, and take your eWaste there. These recyclers carefully take electronics apart and recycle them piece by piece.
If you live in the San Diego area, Recycle San Diego can help you recycle your electronic waste. You can even drop it off for free at one of the free eWaste recycling events in your community! Check the main webpage (http://www.recyclesandiego.org/ewaste-erecycling-events/) for more information on these days and when and where you can drop off your electronics.
If you aren’t in the San Diego area, you aren’t out of luck yet. Lots of web resources, such as Earth911.com, can help you find electronics recyclers near you. You can get plenty of information online for where you can send your electronics or drop them off in order to recycle them properly.
