One of the Biggest Waste Problems Is Quietly Growing

Whenever I purchase an electronic device, I’m pleased to see an EPEAT Gold sticker on it. This is supposed to mean that it is relatively green, or is it?

Relatively speaking, it is. However, environmental certifications like these indicate that the devices contain a relatively small quantity of toxic substances and a low power consumption.

Their environmental footprint could still be high for the following reasons:

• A short lifespan;
• They are irreparable;
• They will become outdated very soon;

The three issues above have become more common. Cellphones are no longer just for calls, they now slow down and are upgraded routinely. You can no longer assume your portable electronics come with replaceable batteries. I could only find one tablet on the market with a replaceable battery!

Electronics are generally not disposed of in a very environmentally sound manner, hence the e-waste issue.

The e-waste issue is the accumulation of discarded electronics in landfills which can lead to the contamination of soil (and even aquifers) with toxic chemicals.

Why Are Electronics Designed Like This?

I will leave this open for discussion. However, it may be for the sake of reducing their production cost.

Is There Anything You Can Do?

Certainly. Shopping carefully for cases that suit you is one. Try them out in the store if possible, you’ll be glad you did (I am). The use of a case enabled all my cellphones to last at least 8 years., and they still look almost new. If you pick a random one without trying it, you’re likely to be uncomfortable with it, and you probably won’t use it.

One of the most significant causes of electronic waste is damage, so you can help the e-waste situation just by buying one!

Feel free to sound off in the comment section with your thoughts.

Visit my science and technology website: Kompulsa.

Twitter: @Kompulsa.