All About E-Waste: Understanding the Problem and Finding Solutions
If you’re reading this article, you’re likely doing so on an electronic device. And while computers, mobile phones and tablets have made our lives easier and more connected, they’re also contributing to a growing, global environmental concern: e-waste.
Short for “electronic waste”, e-waste refers to any discarded device or equipment that has a plug, battery or electrical cord—from old mobile phones and laptops to refrigerators, televisions and even electric toothbrushes. With the increasing rate of product obsolescence, shorter device life span, and the insatiable consumer demand for the latest tech models, it’s no surprise that the world’s e-waste is surging.
There are currently 16 billion cell phones in existence around the world—many of which are no longer in use. In 2019, humans generated 53.6 million metric tons of e-waste, equivalent to the weight of 350 cruise ships. And that number is expected to soar to 74 million metric tons by 2030.
The Problem With E-waste
Many electronic devices contain hazardous materials such as acids, and heavy metals including lead, mercury and cadmium. When not properly disposed of, these toxins can contaminate air and soil, as well as lakes, streams and rivers, impacting drinking water and posing a threat to biodiversity and human health.
In 2021 the World Health Organization issued a report called Children and Digital Dumpsites: e-waste exposure and child health highlighting the threat of e-waste exposure to children and women around the world. Currently, there are approximately 12.9 million female workers serving in informal waste sectors, and those of childbearing age are especially vulnerable to e-waste toxins that have been shown to be detrimental to neonatal health.
These substances also put the 18 million children informally working in the industrial sector, some as young as five years old, at risk. And it doesn’t help that many of the world’s e-waste sites are located close to schools, parks and other areas where children live and play.
Along with the harm to human health, improper e-waste disposal can negatively impact the climate. When electronic devices are incinerated or dumped into landfills, they release greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane.
Despite these overwhelming facts and statistics, there is hope for mitigating the e-waste crisis. But it’s up to governments and organizations to implement plans and strategies for safe and healthy e-waste disposal, and ensure hazardous materials are properly handled.
Government Action on E-waste
In recent years, governments around the world have taken steps to address the growing problem of e-waste. The European Union, for example, has implemented regulations under the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive that require manufacturers to take responsibility for the disposal and recycling of their products. In 2011, the United States created the National Strategy for Electronics Stewardship to encourage recycling of electronic devices by governments, businesses and individuals.
Still, more needs to be done to address what has been dubbed an e-waste “tsunami”. Stricter regulations and funding for the safe disposal and recycling of electronic devices can go a long way in the fight against e-waste.
E-Waste Management for Organizations
Whether you’re a non-profit corporation, a public institution or a private business, the following tips can help you manage and mitigate your electronics output.
Develop a management plan: Work within your organization to create a comprehensive e-waste management strategy that includes guidelines and procedures for the proper disposal and recycling of devices. This should cover all stages of a product’s lifecycle, from procurement to disposal.
Protect sensitive data: Before disposing of electronic devices, ensure all company and personal data has been properly erased or destroyed. This can be done through data wiping or physically destroying the device.
Participate in take-back programs: Create a company-wide policy that ensures old electronics are returned to the manufacturer for proper disposal and recycling. This guarantees safe end-of-life handling and demonstrates the company's commitment to sustainability.
Work with certified recyclers: Partner with professional e-waste managers who ensure devices are recycled in a responsible and environmentally friendly manner.
Conduct audits: Regularly review recycling practices to identify areas of improvement in your organization’s e-waste management. Standardized audits can help track progress and measure success.
Use durable electronics: Build sourcing longer-lasting electronics into the initial procurement process. This reduces the need for frequent replacements and ultimately reduces e-waste.
Educate employees: Discuss the importance of proper e-waste disposal and recycling practices with workers. This can include training on how to properly erase data from electronic devices before disposal.
Purchase from sustainable companies: When sourcing new electronics, choose brands that prioritize sustainability, use eco-friendly packaging and have responsible recycling programs in place.
Safe Disposal of E-waste for Households
Are old electronics piling up in your home? Follow these steps to keep e-waste at bay.
Buy quality products: Purchasing electronics that are designed to last longer can reduce the need for frequent replacements and ultimately reduce e-waste. Look for devices that are made with durable materials and are designed to be repairable. If a device breaks down, do your best to have it repaired before discarding and replacing it.
Question your need for more: Consider using one device for multiple functions, instead of purchasing a second. Resist the urge to replace a functioning device with the latest model.
Recycling: Some, but not all, electronic devices can be recycled. Check with your local recycling center or electronics retailer to find out how to properly dispose of your devices.
Disassembly: Some electronics can be deconstructed for their valuable components, including copper and gold. But be sure to consult a professional, as this requires technical expertise.
Government programs: Many municipalities offer programs to collect and safely dispose of e-waste. Consult your local representatives to learn more.
Trade-in programs: Some electronics retailers offer discounts on new devices when customers bring in their old ones. Take advantage of these programs to save yourself money and help save the planet, too.
Donate or sell electronics: If your phone, TV or other device is still in good working condition, consider donating it to a local charity or selling it online. This extends its life and reduces the need for new electronics to be produced.
Use certified e-waste recyclers: Look for recyclers certified by organizations such as the Responsible Recycling (R2) or the e-Stewards certification.
Lobby for e-waste legislation: Governments can play a key role in reducing e-waste by passing legislation that mandates proper disposal and recycling practices.
Buy from sustainable electronics companies: When purchasing new electronics, choose brands that prioritize sustainability and have responsible recycling programs in place. Refer to your country’s list of relevant eco-labels for electronics to familiarize yourself with different logos to look for, and their significance.
With new device models being released every day, and the consumer demand for electronics expected to grow to USD 1063.39 billion by 2030, the e-waste problem isn’t going anywhere. But if governments, organizations and individuals take action now to implement smart e-waste policies, and ensure safer disposal, we can create a healthier and more sustainable future for ourselves, and generations to come.
Intengine, the world’s largest directory of sustainable businesses, can help you connect with e-waste services in your area. Visit the site to browse, search, find, filter and connect with organizations today.
Tags: e-waste, electronic waste, waste management, electronics, recycle, disposal