E-waste: why is it dangerous and how to you reduce it?
Recently, there have been many published scientific papers highlighting environmental issues. Most of which focus on the big problem of global warming. From whatever point of view climate change was considered, scientists agree on one thing: people and their activities are the main cause of environmental disasters. The extraction of oil and coal, the use of non-renewable energy sources and the high level of use of natural resources are already leading to global changes in the environment. In addition, there is a massive garbage problem. Landfills are growing in size every day, due to not only household but also industrial waste. A big threat is posed by e-waste - electronic devices and components that have been disposed of by their owners or manufacturing companies. They contain hazardous and poisonous substances such as mercury, lead, etc.
Research in 2013 and 2020 by the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that as the amount of e-waste increases, so does the number of miscarriages, premature births, and weight and length decrease. If improperly disposed of, toxic substances that contain e-waste are released into the air, soil and water, which leads to impaired lung function, problems with thyroid function and a general decrease in immunity in people.
What does it mean? Should we refuse of further purchases of electronic devices?
A modern person can no longer refuse devices and gadgets that make life easier and allow you to perform many tasks. This is why work to reduce e-waste is focused on a number of other measures to improve the situation. First of all, WHO is developing courses on e-waste, which should be available around the world, because the biggest problem is the low level of public awareness. Environmental and medical workers must provide truthful information about e-waste, monitor the situation and create conditions to reduce the negative impact on the environment.
Measures to counter the hazardous effects of e-waste
- Reducing the use of harmful substances in electronics
- Foundation the e-waste collection stations
- Information work with the public on the rational use of electronic devices and proper disposal
- Utilization or recycling of components and materials.
What can anyone do to reduce e-waste?
- Repair, if possible, rather than buy new technique
- Choose durable devices
- Buy used equipment
- Choose reliable recycling centers
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