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How does e-waste affect the environment?

E–waste contains toxic chemical elements like lithium, mercury, lead, etc. which can leak into the environment ii. As such, the disposal process of E–waste should not mean sending it to landfills. And this is why there are businesses which specialize in the safe removal and recycling of E–waste.

What is the human and environmental impact of e-waste?

The pollution of soil, water, and air by e–waste also pose a threat to human beings. Soil and water pollution can compromise the food chain, leading to a variety of neurological and organ problems. The dioxins released by burning e–waste can contribute to numerous health issues, including: reproductive problems.

What is the full form of e-waste?

Electronic waste, or e-waste, refers to all items of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) and its parts that have been discarded by its owner as waste without the intent of re-use (Step Initiative 2014).

What is E-waste pollution?

Electronic pollution is the form of pollution caused by the discarded electrical or electronic devices. Used electronics which are destined for reuse, resale, salvage, recycling, or disposal are also considered e–waste.

What are the negative effects of e-waste?

As mentioned, electronic waste contains toxic components that are dangerous to human health, such as mercury, lead, cadmium, polybrominated flame retardants, barium and lithium. The negative health effects of these toxins on humans include brain, heart, liver, kidney and skeletal system damage.

Where does our e-waste go?

However, most electronic waste still ends up in landfills or gets incinerated, wasting useful resources and releasing toxic chemicals and other pollutants — such as lead, mercury, and cadmium — into the soil, groundwater, and atmosphere to the detriment of the environment.

What are the social impacts of e-waste?

The social impact of e–waste is also not to underestimate. When the earlier explained bad environmental impacts occur, they have a significant effect on the human health. When our bodies come into contact with these substances, they can cause cancer, infertility and respiratory illnesses.

What are the types of e-waste?

Types of e – Waste

• Large household appliances (refrigerators/freezers, washing machines, dishwashers)
• Small household appliances (toasters, coffee makers, irons, hairdryers)
• Information technology (IT) and telecommunications equipment (personal computers, telephones, mobile phones, laptops, printers, scanners, photocopiers)

Which material comes in e-waste?

Ferrous and nonferrous metals, glass, plastics, pollutants, and other are the six categories of materials reported for e-waste composition. Iron and steel constitute the major fraction in waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) materials, with plastics being the second largest.

What is e-waste in simple words?

E–waste is a popular, informal name for electronic products nearing the end of their “useful life.” Computers, televisions, VCRs, stereos, copiers, and fax machines are common electronic products. Many of these products can be reused, refurbished, or recycled.

How can we control e-waste?

Minimizing E–waste is Important:

1. Re-evaluate.
2. Extend the life of your electronics.
3. Buy environmentally friendly electronics.
4. Donate used electronics to social programs—and help victims of domestic violence, children safety initiatives, environmental causes, and more.
5. Reuse large electronics.

What are the main causes of e-waste?

E–waste is generated as a result of any of the below-mentioned reasons:

• Upgrade and innovation in technology.
• Lifestyle changes.
• End of the intended usage.

Why electronic waste is a problem?

E–waste contains a laundry list of chemicals that are harmful to people and the environment, like: mercury, lead, beryllium, brominated flame retardants, and cadmium, i.e. stuff that sounds as bad as it is. When electronics are mishandled during disposal, these chemicals end up in our soil, water, and air.