What Are the Dangers of E-waste?

Every year, a deluge of new product releases takes place by manufacturers of computers and electronic items. Consumers are persuaded to get rid of their older, usually larger, bulkier and heavier devices to replace them with newer, faster and higher quality versions. This change often has an unforeseen consequence as it leads to dumping of electronic devices on a mass scale and consequently leads to electronic waste, or e-waste. Electronic waste poses great dangers to public health as it is often more dangerous to people than traditional waste due to the potentially toxic metals that are contained within some electronics.

Lead

• The cathode ray tubes used in both computers and televisions contain a substantial quantity of lead that can be extremely hazardous once it becomes e-waste. Lead can cause a great deal of damage to the central and peripheral nervous systems in the human body. The blood system undergoes severe impairment when exposed to large amounts of lead. Another disastrous consequence of the introduction of lead into the human body is the stunted development of the brain in children. Besides its harmful impact on human beings, lead also contributes to the damage of plants and animals within the nearby environment, especially if it contaminates natural water supplies.

Cadmium

• Semiconductors, infrared detectors and a few other electronic devices contain cadmium, which doubles as a source of permanent harm to the environment. Cadmium is extensively hazardous because of its toxic nature. It accumulates in the kidneys and consequently does irreversible harm to the human body. Cadmium has a very long half life and thus decomposes at a slow pace, making it dangerous to have in the environment.

Mercury

• Thermostats, relays and switches contain a substantial amount of mercury. It is also found in telecommunications equipment and medical devices. Mercury is extremely hazardous once it is introduced into water bodies. Methylated mercury forms as a result, and this accumulates in fish, where it can then be passed on to anything that consumes the fish.