Electronic waste is an increasingly concerning problem across the globe.
Nowadays, people are likely not enjoying older technologies such as VCR players. Instead, they opt for items such as cell phones, and people will look to get a new phone with every release. The same goes with computers, house appliances, and other technologies: people want the latest and greatest. So what becomes of the older gadgets? They get thrown away and add to the ever-growing pile of electronic waste. Electronic waste is an increasingly concerning problem across the globe.
What is Electronic Waste?
Electronic waste, sometimes referred to as e-waste, is electronic products or items that have electronic components in them that are no longer usable. Electronic waste consists of many toxic materials, meaning it requires a lot of care to handle items properly. For outdated products, people could consider donating them to others who might be able to find use in them. In addition, there are many retailers that give customers trade-in options that allow consumers to upgrade their electronic devices without having to throw electronics away. Instead, consumers trade in their old gadgets, and the company gives them new ones.
If electronics are totally useless, it’s not enough to throw them away. They have to go specifically to a licensed waste hauler, or you have to take them to designated drop-offs. If you don’t, serious harm can occur.
How Electronic Waste Harms The Air
Air can become contaminated if e-waste is shredded, melted, or dismantled informally. This is because toxins get released into the atmosphere, and these toxins are hazardous to human health when inhaled. E-waste that doesn’t hold any value will usually be burned, but fine particles get released when burning electronic waste, and it can lead to a higher chance of developing chronic illnesses and cancer.
For higher-value materials, including materials like silver and gold, they are usually removed from electronics with the help of chemicals like acids. However, this is also an issue because fumes can be released into the air that are dangerous to human health.
How Electronic Waste Harms Water
Heavy metals can seep through the earth and start impacting groundwater. This means they will eventually end up in bodies of water, like lakes, rivers, and streams. This causes these bodies of water to become more acidic and toxic, making the water unsafe for consumption. When more water is toxic, drinking water becomes more difficult to find. On top of that, acidic water can compromise the wellbeing of some forms of aquatic life and disrupt entire ecosystems.
Choose AEG Environmental as your Electronic Waste Management Company
Our team can handle any type of waste you put in front of us. Don’t risk your safety and health! If there has been a hazardous mess of any kind, call us today and get the best electronic waste management services available!