EP 198 - Waste & Waste Mgt. - Understanding E-Waste and It’s Pervasiveness in our Lives
Healthy Living Healthy Planet Radio
English - December 24, 2023 01:53 - 48 minutes - 45 MB - ★★★★★ - 1 ratingAlternative Health Health & Fitness Homepage Download Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
The escalating concern of electronic waste (e-waste) is exemplified by its rapid growth and potential environmental and health hazards. The Global E-waste Monitor 2020 reveals a disturbing trend, projecting a staggering 100% increase in global e-waste to reach 74 metric tons by 2030. This surge is propelled by higher consumption rates, short product life cycles, and limited repair options. The toxicity of electronic components, vital for functionality, poses a significant risk when discarded, underscoring the need for careful handling.
Despite the substantial generation of e-waste, the recycling rate is suboptimal. In 2018, an estimated 2.7 million tons of consumer electronics were produced in the United States, with only 38.5% recycled, leading to the disposal of 1.66 million tons in landfills. The decline in the recycling rate from 25% in 2009 to 23.9% in 2018 raises concerns about responsible waste management. Then the question becomes – of the material recycled, what is the efficiency and efficacy of the recycling method and processes.
Children, in particular, face heightened vulnerability to the toxic substances in e-waste due to their smaller size and underdeveloped organs. However, amidst these challenges, e-waste presents an opportunity for resource recovery. Precious metals like gold, silver, and rare earth elements can be extracted for reuse, contributing to a circular economy.
Understanding and addressing the pervasive issue of e-waste is crucial for environmental protection, human health, and resource efficiency. Responsible and sustainable e-waste management, including recycling, can mitigate environmental impacts, create jobs, and reduce the demand for virgin materials and energy. Taking proactive measures is essential to curb the escalating metric tons of e-waste generated globally.
Join Host Bernice Butler and guests Callie Babbitt and Rudiger Kuehr as they unravel and unpack some of this.
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