Electronic Waste: A Growing Problem

As we rely more and more on technology in everyday life, the rate of technological advancements is increasing exponentially. Unfortunately, this also leads to a growing stockpile of used, obsolete electronics that get dumped into the landfills every year. According to the EPA, used or unwanted electronic waste amounted to 2.2 millions tons in 2005 alone. More than 85% of that went straight to our landfills while only 350,000 tons were recycled.

Here's my computer, there's the trash. What's the problem?

We have all become more environmentally conscious by recycling paper, cans and bottles, but why is 85% of electronic scrap making it into landfills? The answer is simple. Most of us have no idea what's going on inside of our electronics; let alone what it is made of. The average CRT monitor contains 4 pounds of lead as well as bits of mercury. When these items are crushed in the landfills, the potential of toxic run-off into the ground, lakes, rivers and oceans is too high for comfort. Climate change has been a hot-button topic recently and we must do what we can to help alleviate the stress on our environment.

What happens to my old electronics?

There are several channels that are available in the recycling/remarketing of your old equipment. Many developing nations are starting to enter the age of technology but do not have the resources to buy the latest and greatest. There are several companies that refurbish old electronics and send them out to these developing nations at a fraction of new electronics' prices. The electronics that can not be refurbished are recycled. These items are sent to recyclers who separate the metals, plastics, and batteries for reuse.

What about my Data?

The U.S. Department of Defense has created requirements on the proper technique of deleting data off used electronics. Eliminating your data security liabilities is a permanent part of our equipment processing. Depending on the level of data sensitivity, we can do either 1-pass or 3-pass overwrites which fully complies with the U.S. Department of Defense security requirement 5220.22-M. Call us to find out how we can help you eliminate your data security liabilities.

Source: http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/hazwaste/recycle/ecycling/index.htm