E-Waste or electronic waste is a huge environmental concern. Electronic waste is composed of hazardous chemicals such as lead, beryllium, cadmium, and mercury.
As commercial/industrial electricians, we are conscious of minimizing the impact of electrical waste on the environment. But each of us can make an even greater impact by responsibly dealing with the waste caused by our electronics.
E-Waste Negatively Impacts Our Planet
E-Waste or electronic waste is a huge environmental concern. Electronic waste is composed of hazardous chemicals such as lead, beryllium, cadmium, and mercury. Many also include brominated flame retardants. If you simply throw these components out with the rest of your garbage, the chances are high that the chemicals in them will wind up in the soil, seeping into our water sources and polluting the air.
When Recycling is not Helpful
Although recycling e-waste is done with green intentions, the waste usually ends up being shipped overseas and dumped into pits. Some recycling companies even ship these gadgets to third-world countries, calling it philanthropy.
Children in those countries often make a living scavenging the gold, silver, copper, and iron from the e-waste. This puts their health at significant risk due to the toxins associated with it. Cybercrime is also high in these areas because cybercriminals can salvage hard drives and other personal files and information that people have left on their computers, phones, and other gadgets.
What should you do to keep your personal information, the environment, and children in third-world countries safe?
Use a Certified E-Waste Recycler
Your e-waste recycler should be officially certified by the Basil Action Network (BAN). Ban is a non-profit network of recycling companies that are dedicated to safely recycling e-waste.
Sell or Donate Your Old Electronics.
When you do, have your personal information completely wiped from the device so that someone with bad intentions can’t use it.
Return Your Electronics to Company Drop Off Points
Many companies have exchange policies that allow you to return your old device in exchange for a discount on purchasing a new one. Even if you are not offered a discount, it is worth looking into whether the company you bought from has a safe recycling program.
At Landmark Electric, we will continue to do our part to protect our customers and our planet. If you have commercial or industrial electrical needs, contact us today!