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How do we dispose of mobile devices and consumer electronics sustainably?

Dariana Kornyakov

Well, disposing of mobile devices and consumer electronics sustainably is a crucial issue that we have to think about. With technology advancing rapidly, the amount of electronic waste that we produce is growing rapidly as well. As a generation, we should be responsible for the impact that we have on the environment, and this includes knowing how to dispose of our old electronics.

According to a report by the United Nations, we produced approximately 50 million tonnes of electronic waste in 2018. This number is projected to rise to 120 million tonnes by 2050 if we don't act soon. This is not only alarming but frightening because electronic waste contains harmful materials that can pose a threat to both the environment and human health. For example, it is reported that there are about 5 to 8 grams of gold in every smartphone that we own, and when we dispose of our electronics carelessly, we're essentially throwing away gold as well as hazardous materials.

But fear not, because there are sustainable ways to recycle electronic devices. One of the best options is to take them to a certified e-waste recycling center. These centers specialize in the proper disposal of electronic waste where they disassemble every component of the device and segregate them based on the material they're made of. For instance, most devices have batteries made of lead and acid, which are hazardous substances. Recycling centers ensure that they're sent to the right places and managed correctly.

Another great way to dispose of your old mobile devices and consumer electronics is to sell them to secondhand stores or donate them to charities. By doing this, it reduces electronic waste in landfills while also making gadgets available at affordable prices.

Interestingly, a study conducted by the United Nations revealed that only 20% of electronic waste is disposed of in an environmentally friendly way. This huge number is a wakeup call for everyone, not just for manufacturers to create sustainable devices, which is essential but mostly for consumers to be aware of the impact of their behavior and to take responsibility.

In conclusion, we can do our part by disposing of our electronic waste responsibly. It’s in our hands to make a difference in the environment’s lifespan. Consider these options, such as recycling centers, secondhand stores, and charity donations, and let us strive to keep our gadgets out of landfills. The world deserves better, and we owe it to future generations to act decisively today.