Today, technology is becoming more and more integrated into every aspect of our lives. As electronics are rapidly being updated and it is often cheaper and easier for people to buy new products than to repair old ones, e-waste is accumulating day by day. It is estimated that in 2016, the world's population discarded 49 million tons of e-waste, which is equivalent to about 4500 Eiffel Towers. This number is growing wildly over time.
When China restricted waste imports, many developed countries realized they were facing a big problem with electronic wasteland. Electronic devices are often made from a complex mix of materials. They contain some recyclable materials, as well as some toxic heavy metals and hazardous chemicals that can harm human health and the environment.
In response to the crazy growth of e-waste, the article analyzes and proposes some suggestions from various aspects. Developed coutries dumping toxic e-waste in poor countries is not the right approach in the long run. Manufacturers need to design safer, more durable, repairable and recyclable electronics that waste fewer resources. Governments can raise awareness of waste separation among residents and provide citizens with access to waste separation to ensure less disposal of mixed waste. Countries can designate laws and regulations regarding the disposal of e-waste to supervise people's decisions and behaviors.
When China restricted waste imports, many developed countries realized they were facing a big problem with electronic wasteland. Electronic devices are often made from a complex mix of materials. They contain some recyclable materials, as well as some toxic heavy metals and hazardous chemicals that can harm human health and the environment.
In response to the crazy growth of e-waste, the article analyzes and proposes some suggestions from various aspects. Developed coutries dumping toxic e-waste in poor countries is not the right approach in the long run. Manufacturers need to design safer, more durable, repairable and recyclable electronics that waste fewer resources. Governments can raise awareness of waste separation among residents and provide citizens with access to waste separation to ensure less disposal of mixed waste. Countries can designate laws and regulations regarding the disposal of e-waste to supervise people's decisions and behaviors.