E-waste: How businesses curb mounting e-waste

From reducing waste during the design phase to allowing consumers to repair their own devices, how are businesses addressing the growing problem of e-waste?

“Out with the old, in with the new” has taken on a new meaning in light of the fact that e-waste is becoming an increasing global waste problem. In 2016, approximately 49 million tons of e-waste were disposed. Experts predict that by 2023, this number will exceed 57 million tons.

Reducing e-waste may appear to be a losing battle due to the sheer volume of the problem. However, there are straightforward measures your business can take to reduce the amount of computers, phones, and monitors discarded annually. And even if your business must dispose of its e-waste, you can take steps to ensure it is done safely and responsibly.

I. What is e-waste?

E-waste refers to any discarded electrical or electronic equipment. This includes functioning and broken items discarded in the trash or donated to a charity reseller like Goodwill. If an item remains unclaimed in a store, it is typically discarded. E-waste is especially hazardous due to the toxic compounds that naturally leach from buried metals.

Common Communications and Information Technology Devices

• Cell phones
• Smartphones
• Desktop Computers
• Computer Monitors
• Laptops
• Circuit boards
• Hard Drives

II. 3 reasons why e-waste recycling is important

1. It is vital to prevent electronic waste from ending up in landfills.

The EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency) has stated that improper disposal of electronic waste is hazardous.  Electronic devices contain toxic chemicals and heavy metals.  Chromium, cadmium, mercury, and lead can leach into the sediment, polluting the air and water.  Globally, the EPA estimates there are approximately 60 million kilograms of electronic waste per year. This material's recycling will conserve landfill space.  Consequently, numerous state laws now prohibit the disposal of electronic waste in landfills.   

2. Electronic products are comprised of valuable materials

In addition to copper, aluminum, plastic, and glass, electronic products contain precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum, as well as precious metals such as silver and platinum.  These materials are recoverable via the recycling procedure.  The vast majority of electronic devices are virtually entirely recyclable.  It would be irresponsible to dispose of these materials in a landfill.   

3. Decreased demand for new raw materials

Recovering valuable materials through the recycling procedure reduces the need for new raw materials. This will aid in the preservation of vital natural resources. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, one metric ton of circuit boards contains 800 times as much gold as one metric ton of ore.

III. E-waste solution: How businesses can handle e-waste

1. Make repairs

Sometimes laptops suffer irreparable damage, or the projector you used for trade exhibits stops working. However, rather than being replaced, many electronic devices can be readily repaired. Consumers are inundated with advertisements for new and enhanced electronics in today's market. Instead of declaring products obsolete after only a few years, businesses should invest in durable equipment that is more sustainable than devices that must be updated annually.

Repairing office equipment and electronics is not only an environmentally responsible solution to e-waste, but also a cost-effective one. In most instances, repairing equipment is considerably less expensive than replacing it.

2. Find a recycling company

Approximately 60% of e-waste ends up in landfills, contaminating the soil with mercury and lead. However, electronic waste recycling is not always simple. Unlike standard recycling, it frequently requires specialized service. In addition, many developed nations, including the United States, have a history of shipping e-waste to underdeveloped regions where products are not recycled responsibly.

Ineffective recycling has both environmental and social consequences. In Guiyu, China, one of the most contaminated cities in the world, individuals frequently endanger human health by disassembling electronics to salvage internal components. Annually, between 20 and 50 million kilograms of e-waste are produced, and this number is rising.

3. Donate electronics

Performing an office-wide software update or expanding your dedicated development team may necessitate the disposal of still-usable electronics. In such a situation, donating obsolete products can be a simple solution. Check with local institutions and charities to determine whether any vulnerable populations require equipment.

Donating electronic refuse is a fantastic alternative to discarding it. Depending on the donation, you may be eligible for tax deductions as an added benefit of reusing outmoded electronics in a responsible manner.

4. Minimize unnecessary purchases

The first step toward sustainable waste management is to generate less refuse to begin with. If businesses prioritize minimizing unnecessary or unneeded electronic purchases from the outset, the quantity of waste remaining for disposal will decrease.

Employee participation in the decision-making process may be an optimal starting point. Many enterprises require specific electronic equipment to perform job duties. If you work in interior design, for instance, you may require a portable laptop with a drawing feature that enables you to create artwork for clients. If you are provided with a computer that lacks these features, it will not be utilized. Employers can reduce waste by ensuring that products initially satisfy employee requirements.

5. Importance of e-waste management

The environmental impact of electronic waste is substantial. Businesses can save money and develop sustainable practices by administering it responsibly. Companies can dispose of e-waste by minimizing superfluous purchases, donating items, partnering with a reputable recycling company, and repairing electronics.

Sum up

Businesses, particularly software development companies, should promote e-waste management awareness.