Technology is ever-evolving, with constant advances in the latest gadgets and electronics. When upgrading to newer equipment and accessories, the older ones generally get discarded quickly. Electronic waste, also known as E-waste, refers to discarded electrical and electronic devices.
Electronic waste includes phones, laptops, TVs, printers, and more. These items include those that are broken, damaged, or have reached the end of their working lifespan. Large sections of landfills house these dangerous waste products, and the number increases every single year. This can pose a serious environmental problem.
How exactly do you properly and safely discard your broken or old electronics? Through commercial junk removal, you can repurpose your electronic waste and reduce your environmental footprint.
Negative Impact of E-Waste on the Environment
A recent study by the World Health Organization (WHO) has shown that E-waste negatively affects the health of millions of children each year.
Devices and equipment often contain harmful chemicals such as beryllium, brominated flame retardants, polychlorinated biphenyls, cadmium, mercury, and lead, which all have serious health and environmental consequences.
Not only do these materials negatively impact people, but they also can endanger the lives of animals and their habitats. Securely disposing of this waste is the first step toward a greener and safer future for the planet.
3 Types of Electronic Waste
There are many different types of electronic waste. Understanding what should be repurposed and discarded effectively is the first step toward a brighter future.
Some of the most common forms of electronic waste that appear in landfills are that of general equipment and tools that you use on a daily basis. When upgrading to a newer model, these pieces are often discarded without the necessary measures. Here are some of the most common items that find their way into landfills.
1. Mobile Phones
Mobile phones seem to come into and out of fashion exceptionally quickly. Every month there is a newer and better version that people opt for. Discarding old phones is dangerous because their batteries and systems often contain harmful chemicals that can seep out of the device when not discarded correctly.
2. Computers and Laptops
Much like phones, computers and laptops share the same fate. These devices carry numerous different systems and pieces that are created using harmful materials. Whether a simple replacement of a graphics card or a battery within the laptop, the discarded piece still contains chemicals that are bad for the environment.
3. Televisions and Monitors
Televisions and monitors are often found in landfills. These small and large pieces of equipment are often left behind to accumulate with general waste. When they degrade, they leak toxic chemicals that are damaging to the air and nearby animals that may encounter them.
Environmental Impacts of Electronic Waste
Electronic waste contains a dangerous amount of toxic chemicals. These chemicals are used to ensure that the system runs as it should, but when it is not properly handled and discarded, they can pose a massive threat to the surrounding environment.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Gasses that radiate from these devices are common. When they evaporate and make their way into the air, it can cause nearby animals and people to fall sick. This is exceptionally dangerous as it poses a major health concern that could affect the lives of hundreds.
Water Pollution
Water pollution due to toxic chemicals is a real and terrifying situation. When the device is left to leach into the ground, these toxic chemicals can often find their way into nearby water sources. When this happens, it completely poisons it. Animals and people that consume this water can fall deathly ill.
Repurposing Electronic Waste: Best Way to Discard E-Waste
When getting rid of electronic waste, one of the best ways is to repurpose the item. This means that the equipment and devices are often given to charity stores such as Goodwill or directly back to manufacturers who can use rare materials to create newer devices.
This means that less of the environment is impacted by the waste while also lowering the overall need for newer resources. There is a range of benefits that come with repurposing electronic waste. This includes a better impact on the overall environment and making the world a greener place.
Reducing Environmental Footprint
Repurposing these pieces of equipment lowers the overall environmental footprint that is present with the harsh chemicals. When they are not given a chance to pollute their surroundings, it provides a safer and more secure environmental footprint that saves local wildlife and prevents people from getting sick.
Saving Valuable Materials and Natural Resources
One of the major benefits of repurposing electronic waste is the saving of valuable materials and natural resources. When these items are repurposed, valuable materials are harvested and reused.
This means that less of the material is needed in the future, which provides a great benefit to the environment because harvesting it directly from the planet is another large contributor to a negative environmental footprint.
Count on a Waste Removal Team That Cares For The Environment
Repurposing electronic waste is not only an environmentally conscious choice, but it also has the potential to save money and resources. At West Coast Property Maintenance, we understand the importance of reducing waste and conserving resources, which is why we offer comprehensive e-waste management services.
Our team of professionals is committed to ensuring that your old electronics are recycled or repurposed in an efficient and responsible manner. By choosing West Coast Property Maintenance for your e-waste management needs, you can be confident that you are making a positive impact on the environment and your community.
So why not take the first step towards responsible e-waste management today? Check out our waste disposal services and see how we can help you repurpose your old electronics!
