About E-Waste
What is E-waste
Before diving into the problems within the act of producing e-waste, it is important to define what the term truly means. The term e-waste or electronic waste refers to the disposal of electrical or electronic devices.
The Global Impact of E-Waste
When assessing the key issues within the topic of e-waste it would be difficult to address such a problem without looking at the global impact. With e-waste being the fastest growing solid waste form within the world, it can be identified that the waste within our globe is growing at a faster rate than our population. This form of pollution is seen as so serious because the electronic disposal system contributes to the release of toxic materials due to irresponsible treatment of such products. Toxic materials such as lead, and mercury have been found within such incorrect disposal systems which then create unique difficulties for children and pregnant women specifically.
Current Management Practices and Regulations
The Electronic Waste Recycling Act (EWRA) of 2003 was created to kickstart the process of safe electronic disposal. The idea was that all disposal of electronic waste was to be monitored and assessed to ensure a safer disposal system. Within the U.S. the disposal of e-waste has been monitored state by state. Within the state of California, anyone disposing of such waste is responsible for the recycling process. This is monitored through the need for such information being needed to be recorded by the time that it is to be disposed of.
Conclusion
With the technological era amongst us, it is more important than ever to recognize the impact of e-waste and how it is being performed. Waste within our world is becoming worse by the day, and the first step to change is recognizing the issue at hand. While acts are being passed to work for a greener future, much still needs to be done. The production of electronics will continue to grow, and without change, so will the irresponsible and dangerous production of their waste as well.