Most electronic devices contain a variety of materials, including metals that can be recovered for future uses. By dismantling and providing reuse possibilities, intact natural resources are conserved and air and water pollution caused by hazardous disposal is avoided. Another benefit of recycling e-waste is that many of the materials can be recycled and reused again. Materials that can be recycled include ferrous (iron-based), non-ferrous metals and rare earth elements, glass and various types of plastic.
Other substances found in large quantities include:
- Lead (Pb) as CRT monitor glass, lead-acid batteries
- Tin (Sn) as solder
- Copper (Cu) as wire, printed circuit board tracks, ICs
- Silicon (Si) as glass, transistors, ICs, printed circuit boards
- Aluminium (Al) as heatsinks, ICs, electrolytic capacitors
Almost all electronics contain tin (Sn) and copper (Cu).
Recovering raw materials from recycling end-of-life electronics is the most effective solution to the growing e-waste problem. This will also reduce the need for mining for additional raw resources or manufacture of new components.
