(CNN) -- The champions at the Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver can stand on the podium proud of their achievements, but the eco-minded among them can be extra proud that their medals are made with traces of precious metals recovered from e-waste. According to a new report, however, a more universal solution to a growing problem needs to be found.

E-waste comprises discarded electronic appliances, of which computers and mobile telephones are disproportionately abundant because of their short lifespan. The current global production of E-waste is estimated to be 20-25 million tonnes per year, with most E-waste being produced in Europe, the United States and Australasia. China, Eastern Europe and Latin America will become major E-waste producers in the next ten years. Miniaturisation and the development of more efficient cloud computing networks, where computing services are delivered over the internet from remote locations, may offset the increase in E-waste production from global economic growth and the development of pervasive new technologies.

Officials say Howard A. Schmidt, a longtime computer security executive who worked in the Bush administration and has extensive ties to the corporate world, has been chosen to take on the task of organizing and managing the nation's increasingly vulnerable digital networks.

Deciding between new or used computers? Here's a rundown on the benefits of buying refurbished equipment:

Brian Williams makes the right call to save the environment. Recycle electronics

Canon Middle EastCanon Middle EastCanon Middle East CME Region-wide | Consumer Goods News | Profile | Officers , the world-leading innovator and provider of imaging and information technology solutions, today announced its latest environmental initiative in the Middle East with the signing of a partnership agreement with EnviroServe, the leading environmental waste managers.

As of Aug. 15, Leduc County will be a registered site for recycling various types of rechargeable and non-rechargeable household batteries, including nickel cadmium (Ni-Cd), nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH), lithium ion (Li-ion), small sealed lead (Pb) and nickel zinc (Ni-Zn). The battery type can be found printed on the battery's casing.

Westford - The Westford Recycling Commission (WRC) facilitates three electronics recycling (E-cycling) events per year. These events provide an avenue for Westford residents to discard electronic items in an environmentally responsible manner for a minimal cost. This ensures these items stay out of the waste stream and are disposed of properly.

The City of Raleigh Solid Waste Services Department is partnering with Eco Lube to set up a mini-recycling drop-off center that will accept electronic items. The Eco Lube Service Station is located at 4901 Atlantic Avenue. This is the only recycling drop-off centers that will accept electronic items.

Urner's in Bakersfield & Neil Agness E-Waste Recycling have teamed together to provide a FREE Electronic Waste Collection Event for all Kern County Residents on Saturday, September 19th. The hours for the event will be 9am - 3pm.