Have you ever thought about how many raw materials are used in the fabrication of your favourite electronic device? And do you know what happens to it once its life cycle is over? Can you dispose of it safely? More than ever before, people everywhere are starting to ask themselves these very questions. The answers can be both startling and reassuring.
According to Environment Canada, approximately 140,000 tonnes of E-waste end up in Canadian Landfills every year. Most electronics can contain toxic substances such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), brominated flame retardants (BFRs), cadmium, lead, mercury, beryllium, and more. Major health and environmental problems arise when these products are not disposed of properly. E-waste creates toxic run-off over time and poisons our soil, water, and eco-systems. Even worse, in many countries, scavenging landfill for precious metals is commonplace, except now, people are poisoned directly.
The well being of people across the globe is important. In Canada and other parts of the world, we can choose to dispose of our electronics safely. Thanks to electronic recycling programs (Lenovo Canada, Electronic Recycling Association, Micro Alternative Solutions) and product take back programs (www.greenpeace.org/greenerelectronics) E-cycling is made easy. So before you start shopping for a new device, research the manufacturer, and find a way to dispose of your old one responsibly.
