Every year anywhere from 20 to 50 million tons of EWaste is disposed of. This number is expected to increase to over 60 million by 2015. It is extremely toxic and can lead to health problems with the kidneys, bleeding, and lead poisoning among others. Studies have even shown direct links to problems with the central nervous system.
The health risks have only begun to be studied so it is likely that more linkages will be found with additional health issues or diseases.
The challenge with this type of waste is that it appears to have no end. Consumers throughout the world have developed an appetite for cheap electronics. There is less of a hassle and sometimes less of a cost associated with buying a new device than repairing the one you have. This creates a crisis where everything from microwaves to cell phones are being thrown into our landfills.
EWaste is a global epidemic caused by several factors. Developing nations are continuing to increase their purchasing power with the growth of their middle class. Countries like India have fully entered the technology world, as has China. Additionally, countries like the United States and Europe are shipping their waste to Asian countries for disposal. Many of these programs are portrayed as electronic recycling but in all actuality they are being dismantled and burned inappropriately and entire communities are suffering from health issues due to the lead and other toxic materials inside of the waste. The more waste that we produce globally, the worst this problem will become. We cannot wait to identify solutions to our EWaste problems. The time is now, and we must act as a global society to solve the issue. Otherwise people groups and the planet will suffer.
Like most problems, the solution starts at a hyper-local level. Reducing EWaste starts at home with a commitment to recycle old electronics, rather than throwing them away. If you no longer have a need for a particular item, there is a good chance that someone else does. Green Tree Recycling has multiple programs in place for recycling electronics. This is all done on a local level and is a convenient way for you to get rid of old electronics while keeping them out of the landfill.
Here are several ways we can dispose of your EWaste responsibly:
Donations. There are many shelters, non-profits, halfway houses and charitable organizations that need used appliances. A dated refrigerator may not look good in your newly remodeled kitchen, but it will do wonders for a shelter in need of additional food storage. We work with many deserving organizations.
Schools. The team at Green Tree Recycling is committed to making a difference in our local public schools. We believe that every child should be able to access and learn on a computer. By gathering old computers that businesses and individuals no longer need, we can supply schools with the equipment necessary to educate the children in our communities.
To learn more about the EWaste problem and how you can keep things out of landfills, contact Green Tree Recycling today.
