Question

write a summary report regarding E-waste regarding pollutants and the sustainability o 3 bottom lines(economy, society, environment).

Answer 1

E-waste refers to the generation of waste from the engineering world which is dominated by the use of electronic /electrical devices and equipment.

Problems Created By E-Waste:

1. E- waste consists of toxic metal like Hg, Pb, Cd. Cr which produces toxins.

2. They are the sources of carcinogens like Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins.

3. They cause several health problems to all those who are directly involve with the e- waste processing, as they contain radioactive isotopes.

Effects of E- waste on environment &Society & economy :

1. E-Waste Negatively Impacts The Soil

First, e-waste can have a damaging effect on the soil of a region. As e-waste breaks down, it releases toxic heavy metals. Such heavy metals include lead, arsenic, and cadmium.when these toxins leach into the soil, they influence the plants and trees that are crowing from this soil.thus, these toxins can enter the human food supply, which can lead to birth defects as well as a number of other health complications.

2. E-Waste Negatively Impacts The Water

E-waste that is improperly disposed of by residents or businesses also leads to toxins entering groundwater.this groundwater is what underlies many surface streams, ponds, and lakes. Many animals rely on these channels of water for nourishment. Thus, these toxins can make these animals sick and cause imbalances in the planetary ecosystem.E-waste can also impact humans that rely on this water. Toxins like lead, barium, mercury, and lithium are also considered carcinogenic.

3. E-Waste Negatively Impacts The Air

When e-waste is disposed of at the landfill, it’s usually burned by incinerators on site.This process can release hydrocarbons in the atmosphere, which pollutes the air that many animals and humans rely on.furthermore, these hydrocarbons can contribute to the greenhouse gas effect, which many scientists think is a leading contributor to global warming.In some parts of the world, desperate people sift through landfills in order to salvage e-waste for money. Yet, some of these people burn unwanted parts like wires in order to extract copper, which can lead to air pollution as well.

4. Electronic waste is more than an economical problem. It also affects the health of millions of people who make a living by stripping out the waste dumped in their countries. Environmental experts say it will take new funds and manpower to solve the problem, by establishing safe recycling facilities and curbing illegal exports.

Sustainabilty:

1.Donate or Sell Working Electronics

The simplest way to efficiently manage e-waste is to simply sell your electronics if it’s in good working condition. Go on eBay or Craigslist to sell these items and give it to someone who really needs it. Otherwise, there are recycling websites and comparison websites that will give you a price for your old gadgets and allow you to send them off, to be repurposed or recycled effectively.

2.Use Your Old Mobile Phone as a GPS Device

Most people swap their old phones for a new one every year. Instead of letting it sit in the desk drawer, or worse, throwing it in the trash, consider using it for some other purpose. You can keep it in your car and use it as a GPS device or music player. Old phones can be converted into universal remote controls or used to monitor security cameras.

3.

Consume Less in Order to Reduce Your E-Waste

It’s so easy to purchase a sleek TV, the latest mobile phone or a brand-new laptop. Most people don’t even stop to think if they really need them. Before buying anything, ask yourself whether you really need it. If you’re buying a new phone even though your old one is in good working condition,You can repair your old laptop instead of buying a new one. Being a sensible consumer will go a long way in productively managing your household’s e-waste.

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