E-Waste is a Universal Matter By Wendi Williams, Editor

We live in a world where technology is synonymous with big business and the best education. If we don't keep up with the latest technological advances it becomes increasingly difficult to compete in a global market. Even as consumers we cannot resist the urge to buy the latest laptop or desktop computer, television, monitor, or cell phone that takes pictures, uploads our presentations, manages our hectic schedules, or allows us to talk to our loved ones at any time and place in the world. As soon as we learn to use one mode of technology, another is waiting to take its place. Yet, how many of us truly wonder or perhaps even care about what happens to technology when it becomes outdated or outlived its usefulness in our lives?

As with global warming, the discarding of electronics or e-waste is a tremendous threat to our environment. One of America's watchdogs, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), estimates that between the years 2000 and 2007, 500 million computers will become obsolete. This waste poses serious problems because electronics are manufactured out of different materials from plastic to highly toxic substances, including lead found in computer screens or mercury used in alkaline batteries. These substances can severely damage bodily organs and even cause death, and should be kept out of our landfills. Since every global citizen has used some type of electronic device, it only makes sense to view e-waste as a universal matter.

One of the first recycling programs in the world was implemented in Switzerland. The country began collecting old refrigerators in 1991 and by 2005, expanded that program to include additional electronics. Members of the European Union are now required to recycle a minimum of 4 kilograms of e-waste per capita, while other European countries prohibit e-waste from being dumped in landfills. In 2004, the state of California began charging consumers an additional fee when purchasing new monitors and televisions to offset recycling costs (Wikipedia, 2007).

The EPA also urges consumers to reuse, donate, or buy green (recyclable) products. Check to see if manufacturers like IBM have a "take back" program. Electronic items such as computers can be donated to schools, community centers, or other non-profit organizations. Businesses can also take advantage of tax incentives for computer-related donations with the appropriate tax documentation.

Alabama residents should contact local sanitation departments to find out what recycling programs are available in your area, or visit the website Earth 911. The Alabama Environmental Council, who runs one of the oldest recycling centers in the state, also offers various tips on recycling products. Visit their website at www.aeconline.ws or call the Recycling Hotline at 1-800-982-4364 for more information.

Today, there are nearly 7 billion people populating the globe, which means there are nearly 7 billion electronic consumers. It's never too late to develop an environmental conscious. After all, protecting earth and its inhabitants is everybody's business!

References

Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs. (2007). E-cycling: Your guide to recycling electronics. Retrieved March 19, 2007.

e-Waste Guide. (2007). Hazardous substances. EMPA Switzerland. Retrieved March 19, 2007.

Hall, Kelly. (2007). Reduce, reuse, recycle. Recycling. Retrieve April 2, 2007.

Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality. (Summer 2001). Electronic waste: A new challenge for a new millennium. Environmental Update. Retrieved March 19, 2007.

Wikipedia. Electronic waste. Retrieved March 19, 2007.

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