Electronic waste is a rapidly growing stream of waste and one that is not without its consequences. While the reason for this rapid proliferation is the shorter life cycles of digital products combined with an increased tendency to consume better and faster electronic gadgets, the mountain of e-waste is rising at an alarming speed.
It is crucial to manage this mounting challenge with a sustainable approach towards e-waste recycling on a national level. The stark warnings from the United Nations about the dire consequences of electronic waste, if it continues to rise on the current trends, should serve as a wake-up call and stir governments and communities into taking action.
In this blog, we will discuss the significance of e-waste management, what the e-waste recycling process encompasses and the benefits communities can reap from effective e-waste recycling.
Why Is It Important To Recycle E-Waste
Before we delve into a full-blown discussion about the benefits of electronic waste recycling, let us first understand why it is imperative to recycle e-waste.
According to the United Nations, the volume of e-waste is increasing with each passing year. Unfortunately, the recycling rate is not on par with the rate of e-waste generation. This situation is ringing bells for danger, as this waste stream is a highly toxic pile of waste that has serious consequences for the environment, wildlife, and humans.
While this may paint a grave picture of the management of electronic waste, the truth is not all hope is lost. At Ez on the earth, we believe that each one of us can contribute to a healthier planet by engaging in sustainable practices for e-waste disposal. We have several options to cater to the varying needs of our business clients regardless of the nature and size of the business.
A Glimpse of the E-Waste Recycling Process
The e-waste recycling process consists of several steps. This section of the blog will explain each of these steps in detail.
Collection
This marks the beginning of the e-waste recycling process. Various types of electronic waste are collected through drop-off locations where consumers can bring their used electronic equipment and drop it off for recycling.
Ez on the earth also offers a convenient mail-in program for the collection of old electronic equipment. Through this program, clients can order online electronic recycling kits, fill them up with the devices they wish to be recycled, and ship them back to us through their nearest FedEx.
Sorting, Disassembly & Shredding
Once the piles of e-waste arrive at the recycling plant, they undergo sorting and then dismantling procedures. The electronics are sorted to remove any batteries and cords that they might contain. Then they are dismantled manually to be broken down into parts. After manually sorting and dismantling electronics, they are subjected to a shredder, wherein they are broken down into tiny pieces.
Separation
The mixture of shredded e-waste goes through mechanical separation. This consists of two stages namely: magnetic separation and water separation.
Magnetic separation is employed to remove all the ferrous constituents from the shredded e-waste.
Water separation is used to further purify the mixture and remove glass and plastics from the amalgam of e-waste.
Recovery
This is the most crucial stage of e-waste recycling and in essence, what makes the whole process profitable. During this stage, useful materials like copper, gold, silver, nickel, cadmium, and other metals are extracted from the electronic waste and put to use in a myriad of industries.
Benefits of Responsible E-Waste Recycling
Now that we understand the process of electronic waste recycling, we are in a better position to understand the advantages that effective e-waste recycling has. Let's dive right in.
Supports a Healthier Environment
Diverting e-waste from landfills to recycling centers prevents environmental pollution caused by the toxic materials found in old electronics. These hazardous substances include heavy metals like cadmium, cobalt, nickel, and mercury.
These poisonous compounds are a major cause of freshwater and soil contamination and also contribute to air pollution. Recycling e-waste ensures that these compounds are safely removed and disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner by certified recycling companies.
Prevents Leakage of Toxic Substances
E-waste, especially old batteries, houses poisonous chemical materials that can leach into the soil if dumped in landfills. These substances then cause pollution and disturb the fragile balance of a lot of ecosystems as well. Disposing of batteries and other types of electronic waste ensures that these toxic substances are kept out of landfills and do not cause environmental degradation.
Promotes a Circular Economy
As the usage of electronic devices increases, so does the mountain of e-waste. A useful way to combat this issue is to promote the use of devices in a circular loop. This encourages the growth of a circular economy. For example, through recycling e-waste it is possible to extract useful materials from used devices and use them in other industries for the manufacture of new products. This not only helps to bring down the cost of new products but also serves to lessen the burden on finite natural resources of the Earth.
Conclusion
E-waste is a growing concern for communities globally due to its severe environmental consequences. It is essential to address it with immediate practical steps. Recycling e-waste offers a plethora of advantages both for the environment and the economy.
Before tossing your used electronic devices in the trash, think about the consequences this will have for you and the future generations to come. Embark on the pathway for sustainability by embracing effective e-waste recycling habits today.
Get started With E-Waste Recycling With EZ on the Earth
Ez on the earth is an environmentally conscious e-waste recycling company offering services to businesses across the USA. We have specialized equipment and eco-friendly recycling procedures to yield maximum benefits for our clients and the planet.
To learn more about the range of our e-waste recycling services contact our team of experts or log on to our website to get a free quote.