Electronic waste refers to any item that has a plug or battery that is not working, such as computers, keyboards, printers, circuit boards, motherboards, monitors, DVD players, power tools, scanners, kitchen appliances, televisions, video game consoles and mobile phones. However, very few people and businesses take the time to investigate better ways of disposing their old technology. Our busy lifestyle has generally driven many people to a point where they hardly consider items that do not affect their daily life significantly, such as electronic waste recycling . Therefore, rather than opting for appropriate electronic waste disposal options, they end up throwing away electronics in the trash bin.

E-waste disposal

Electronic waste contains hazardous and toxic materials such as cadmium, brominated fire retardants, mercury and lead. Electronics that contain these substances can prove harmful to the environments. Therefore, they should not be taken to landfills. Furthermore, electronic items such as PCs contain valuable metals like copper and gold. Proper disposal measures seek to retrieve these recyclable components for re-use. Essentially, any electronic item that is no longer required can be recycled, preventing it from ending up in landfills.

Disposal options

It does not have to cost you to be environmentally conscious. There are several free disposal services available in the country. Furthermore, city councils normally provide free electronic waste disposal days, where residents are encouraged to deliver their e-waste to certain locations. This goes a long way in ensuring e-waste is disposed in an environmentally sound way. If you are interested in making some money, you have the option of selling your e-waste. Several online sites offer a home for any unwanted electronic items, while allowing people to make some extra cash. If you prefer being charitable, electronic items that are in good working condition may be donated to local schools or underprivileged communities.

Case for recycling

If something breaks, buying a new item as opposed to fixing the problem may offer a smarter option. E-waste is estimated to grow at a high rate, but decades of leaving e-waste in landfill sites have resulted in dangerous metals (ie mercury, cadmium and lead) contaminating the surrounding soil and groundwater. The health effects of these metals in humans can prove devastating. According to research, mental health disorders, cancer and tumors are the results of being exposed to these harmful toxins. Recycling materials create secondary raw material that results in substantial energy savings than creating primary raw material. In effect, recycling preserves valuable resources and conserves energy.

Source: https://ewasterecyclingperth.mystrikingly.com/blog/electronic-waste-disposal-options