E-Waste stands for Electronic Waste, and it refers to any type of electronics that are no longer in working condition and are beyond repair or repurpose. Some examples of e-waste would be:
- BlueRay Players
- CDs
- Computer Monitors
- Computers
- DVD Players
- DVDs
- Electronic Gaming Systems
- Fax Machines
- iPods
- Laptops
- Mobile Phones
- MP3 Players
- Printers
- Stereos
- Televisions
- VCRs
Why can we not mix e-waste in our normal recycling systems?
Electronic waste contains a witch’s brew of toxic chemicals such as Lead, Mercury, Beryllium and Arsenic that are extremely harmful to both us humans, and our wider environment. The problem with mixing e-waste in with your normal recycling is that the recycling facilities do not have the capacity to separate these items and direct them elsewhere, so they ultimately end up in landfill. Once these items are in landfill the dangerous chemicals begin to leech out and end up contaminating the soil, groundwater and air around them, eventually leading back to each and every one of us, our kids, our wildlife and this planet we call home. Feeling sick yet?
What is the answer to dispose of our e-waste properly?
The government and local councils are more aware than ever about how important it is to spread this message far and wide. If you visit your local council’s website they all have details on how you can either drop your waste at a local recycling point, or alternatively, if there is a set collection day in your area for e-waste.
You can also head to
Planet Ark’s website where you can search for your nearest deposit centre according to your postcode. So easy!
Every little step we can take to divert items away from landfill is an amazing, positive step in the right direction for the future sustainability of our planet. So, the next time you have electronic items to throw away, take a moment to dispose of it properly and help save future generations from suffering at the hands of our mistakes.
