With technology constantly advancing, it’s no surprise that newer models are being introduced to market quicker than ever before. Whether it’s a new phone, tablet, or computer, consumers are often quick to toss out the old and replace them with the most current gadgets available. But what happens to all of our discarded electronics? The end result is e-waste, and it has become a significant problem that has only intensified over time as demand for the most up-to-date devices grows.
The E-Waste Problem
E-waste refers to any electronic device that is no longer in use, whether still operational or not. This can include everything from old televisions to outdated laptops & older model smartphones. Unfortunately, many people and businesses are unaware of the damage that e-waste can cause to the environment when not disposed of properly. According to the World Economic Forum, only 20% of e-waste globally is recycled, meaning the rest ends up either taking up home or office space, or sent to landfills or incinerated (often illegally).
This alarming trend should be of great concern to all of us. For example, when electronic devices are incinerated, they release numerous toxic chemicals into the atmosphere. Additionally, many electronics contain materials that are harmful to the environment, such as lead, cadmium, and mercury, which can leach into the soil and water supply. E-waste also takes up valuable space in landfills, which are already overflowing with standard household garbage.
The Importance of Recycling
Given the negative impact that e-waste can have when disposed of incorrectly, it’s crucial that we encourage recycling of our old electronics. Recycling greatly reduces the harmful effects that improper disposal can have, and it can help preserve valuable resources that are used to manufacture our electronics. For example, repurposing the metal & plastic from obsolete devices can greatly reduce the amount of water & fossil fuels used in the manufacturing new devices.
How Computer Recycling is Making a Difference
Thankfully, there are companies like Computer Recycling that are dedicated to helping reverse these negative trends and moving toward a more sustainable future. Computer Recycling has provided businesses, schools, medical offices & individuals with secure and transparent e-waste management solutions for over two decades.
One of the ways that Computer Recycling is making a difference is through a plethora of e-waste pickup and removal services. Whether it’s providing dumpsters, live load collections or servicing e-waste events, they have a solution for any business or organization to have their e-waste recycled properly. Furthermore, any metal, plastic or glass that can be salvaged is set aside for use in manufacturing new devices, thereby reducing the need to mine for new resources to meet customer demand in assembling computers, smartphones, and the like.
Computer Recycling also offers data destruction through the use of a US Department of Defense standard wipe or complete demanufacturing of hard drives, so businesses can rest assured that their sensitive data cannot be accessed by bad actors. For any medical office or business in the financial sector, it cannot be stressed enough how vital this service is: not only is preventing the likelihood of a data breach good corporate stewardship, it also ensures that the company will not have to face a potentially crippling fine or sanction if this were to ever occur.
Conclusion
If we as individuals, communities & corporate citizens do not take action, the mounting e-waste issue may cause environmental damage that we may never fully recover from. Startling though this may seem, it only takes each of us making a minor change or two in our habits to make a big difference. From helping to spread awareness to partnering with reliable firms like Computer Recycling when we have e-waste to dispose of, we’re working to reverse the trend of computers, TVs, white goods, and other equipment left to decompose out in the elements. Whether it’s a town recycling program or taking it directly to a certified e-waste recycler, ensuring proper disposal of e-waste devices is well worth a minimal investment of time & effort. Together, we can all do our part to create a more sustainable future.
