Embedded Files
By: Aidan McMahon, Jordan Katz, Maya Bettinger Lopez, & Noam Cariglio
What is e-waste?
When you throw out your phone, laptop, or TV, they don’t just get recycled or biodegrade into the Earth. No, they stay, accumulate, and are destroying our environment. Electronic waste, or e-waste, is any kind of electronic device or appliance that has been discarded, destined to pollute our world and endanger our lives.
E-waste can range from a multitude of different electronic appliances. So it is not just limited to your phone, but can be your freezer or your toaster!
"Many in today’s society use multiple computers and phones, an ever-growing number of new appliances, monitors, and sensors, e-bikes, e-scooters, clothes, toys, and furniture with embedded electronics, electric tools, and energy-saving equipment such as LEDs, photovoltaics, and heat pumps. . . . In the face of all this, concrete steps are urgently needed to address and reduce e-waste. Improved e-waste management could result in a global net positive of US$ $38 billion, representing a significant economic opportunity while addressing climate change and health impacts."
- Ruediger Kuehr, Senior Manager, Sustainable Cycles (SCYCLE), Programme, UNITAR / Adjunct Professor, University of Limerick (Ireland)
Research Gate
Projected electronic waste generated worldwide 2019-2030
This graph shows that every year, e-waste grows and is expected to grow up to 74.7 million metric tons by 2030.
What people usually fail to realize is that the effect of electronic disposal poses a severe risk to our lives and planet.
World Health Organization (WHO)
Soaring e-waste affects the health of millions of children, WHO warns
Abstract
Electronic waste, or e-waste, is a growing problem, for discarded electronics like phones, computers, and TVs release noxious chemicals into the environment. These devices contain toxic materials such as lead and mercury, which harm human health and wildlife. E-waste also contributes to climate change by polluting the air and water. This website analyzes the dangers of e-waste and the importance of recycling to reduce its impact. However, only 20% of e-waste is recycled worldwide, so we also explore alternative solutions. Without the necessary actions, e-waste will continue to harm the planet and future generations.
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