E-waste, Impact on the society and education
Tittle of issue: E-waste
Tittle of Article case: Environmental impacts
Environmental impacts
Electronics constitute an indispensable part of everyday life, their hazardous effects on the environment cannot be overlooked or underestimated. The interface between electrical and electronic equipment and the environment takes place during the manufacturing, reprocessing, and disposal of these products. The emission of fumes, gases, and particulate matter into the air, the discharge of liquid waste into water and drainage systems, and the disposal of hazardous wastes contribute to environmental degradation. In addition to tighter regulation of e-waste recycling and disposal, there is a need for policies that extend the responsibility of all stakeholders, particularly the producers, beyond the point of sale and up to the end of product life.
Summary Narrative:
Electronic waste or e-waste has emerged as one of the looming waste streams and this is problematic due to the effects it has on the environment and people. Electronic waste includes all sorts of toxic substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium and brominated flame retardants which in one way or the other contaminate the soil and water sources. In the process of collection, transportation, processing and recycling of e-waste, these toxins and hazardous elements are released into the environment and also negatively affect the health of the employees who develop cancer, neurological disorders, kidney failure or any other disease.
The fact remains that in addition to the pollution e-waste contributes to the environment in other ways. Incineration of e-waste results to the release of hazardous dioxins in the atmosphere while toxic chemicals erode from recycled products taint water sources. Management of e-waste is crucial for sustenance and some of the impacts of e-waste on the development of sustainable society as well as the welfare of human beings cannot be over-emphasized. It extends to even stringent conditions on matters of recycling or disposal of products and product life cycle management by producers.
As much as the management of e-waste is a global concern, exportation of e-waste especially from the developed countries to the developing countries worsens the situation. This practice is based on the economic revenues that are attached to the processing of e-waste in countries with no or little environmental policies and an inexpensive labor market. However, this is accompanied by a very high cost on the health of other vulnerable groups of people and the environment. Further, the problem can be solved with the help of the international cooperation and developing the suitable e-waste management for the protection of the environment and health.
What lessons have you learned?
From what I have read in the article about e-waste, we can say that education plays an important role in fighting this emerging environmental and social issue. First, is that it brings attention to the lack of public knowledge of the dangers that e-waste has on humans and the environment. This is very important because it could lead to more people disposing of their waste properly and less people taking risks with backyard recycling. Schools can also incorporate e-waste management into their curriculum , educating the students on recycling and reusing and the significance of reducing electronic waste.
Second, the article also discusses the social injustices associated with e-waste, particularly how people in developing nations are exploited due to the usage of unofficial recycling techniques. We educators can help to solve this issue by encourage ethical disposal and consumption practices and raise awareness of these issues. As the effects of e-waste become more widely recognized, consumers will become mindful buyers and advocate for more responsible e-waste regulations.
Lastly, the article concludes by stating that developing sustainable e-waste management systems with the environment and human health as the top priorities is important and that international cooperation is required. We educators have the power to instill a sense of responsibility to contribute to the solution of the unsolvable environmental issues about E-waste. A more equitable and sustainable future can be created by promoting sustainable practices through education and by creating economic opportunities through the appropriate management of e-waste.
What suggestions can you offer?
These are the suggestion that we should offer to lessen or prevent the E-waste impact.
Firstly to strengthen producer responsibility. The manufacturing companies must be made responsible through design for long life, recyclability, minimum waste generation, and take-back programs.
Secondly the Stringent Regulation. There is a need for more stringent controls on emissions and waste management at various production, reprocessing, and disposal stages.
Third one is Ecological Design. There has to be encouragement in the development of green materials and the making of energy-efficient gadgets.
Lastly, the raise consumer awareness. The people have to be informed about how electric products must be used and disposed of.
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