Electronic waste (e-waste) describes discarded electrical or electronic devices. It is also commonly known as waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) or end-of-life (EOL) electronics.
E-waste is considered the fastest growing waste stream in the world due to the growing consumption of electronic goods as a consequence of Digital Revolution and innovations in science and technology which has led to a global e-waste problem and hazard. This rapid change in technology, changes in media which includes tapes, software, MP3 and planned obsolescence have resulted in a fast-growing surplus of electronic waste around the globe. For instance, processors are most frequently out-dated by software which are no longer being optimized and are more likely to become e-waste.
Informal processing of e-waste can lead to adverse human health effects and environmental pollution. Liquid and atmospheric releases might end up in bodies of water, groundwater, soil and air and therefore in land and sea animals, in crops eaten by both animals and humans, and in drinking water. Electronic waste has a horrible effect on the environment and it is important to dispose e-waste with a recycling center which adhere to recycling protocols.
Recycling centers which adhere to recycling protocols can greatly reduce the leakage of toxic materials into the environment and militate against the exhaustion of natural resources. Currently, less than 20% of e-waste is formally recycled, with 80% either ending up in landfill or being informally recycled, exposing workers to hazardous and carcinogenic substances such as mercury (Hg), lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd). Properly disposing of e-waste can help prevent health problems, reduce greenhouse-gas emissions and create jobs. Improper management of e-waste is resulting in a significant loss of scarce and valuable raw materials such as gold (Au), platinum (Pt), cobalt (Co) and rare earth elements.
