Material composition of personal computers

We never really think about this: Where do all our electronics go when we throw them away? This is called E-waste, and it may be a bigger problem than we think. E-waste is a popular, informal name for electronic products nearing the end of their “useful life.” Computers, televisions, VCRs, stereos, copiers, and fax machines are common electronic products. Many of these products can be reused, refurbished, or recycled. Unfortunately, electronic discards is one of the fastest growing segments of our nation’s waste stream. Millions of tons of disused electronic equipment containing toxic chemicals and heavy metals are being dumped every year without recycling or safe disposal. More than 80 percent of televisions, computers, mobile phones and other equipment escape proper handling in the United States, Greenpeace claims.
More than 1 billion mobile phones were sold last year alone, and even more will be sold next year if you can believe that. A mobile phone contains 500 to 1,000 components, many of them containing potentially dangerous metals like lead, mercury, cadmium and beryllium, as well as hazardous chemical flame-retardants. What can be done about this?
Well, it is a pretty good idea not to throw your old cell phone in the trash when you have upgraded to a new iPhone, LG Shine, etc. Each day, various types of consumer electronics are constantly being upgraded or completely scrapped in favor of technological advancements. In the process, thousands of old VCRs, walkman cassette decks and bulky video cameras become what is known as “e-waste” or electronic waste. Try to avoid throwing it away and try making some profit off it via BuyMyTronics. We reviewed this site last year and they not only pay you for turning in your old tech product, but they dispose of it safely if the product cannot be salvaged.
The amount of e-waste is likely to increase because e-waste is growing at three times the rate of other public waste. Although e-waste accounts for only one to four percent of municipal waste, it may be responsible for as much as 70 percent of the heavy metals in landfills, including 40 percent of all lead.
It is a good idea to look at e-waste not as waste, but as resource. As time goes by, and e-waste continues to grow, we will begin to become aware of this and be more resourceful. Useful materials such as glass, copper, and aluminum, plastic and other components can often be extracted and reused. Some manufacturers have even referred to e-waste as a valuable source of materials.

With an increasing arrangement of environmentally-friendly options now available, people should consider recycling or donating their old electronic devices. With either choice, we can reduce the amount of e-waste and actually put our old items to good use.