Most consumers can name a dozen computer manufacturers and suppliers, but they perhaps cannot name even one computer recycling company. The truth is, the recycling industry has just not kept pace with the rapid technology of new computers. This is a matter of concern because the only option that consumers face is to throw away their computer instead of going in for the greener option of computer recycling. So how big a deal is throwing away your computer instead of recycling it?
When you throw away your computer instead of recycling it, you are showing a way for these chemicals to enter into our food chains, directly or indirectly. Computers can contain lots of toxic chemicals like cadmium, lead, mercury and many other complex compounds that can have an adverse effect on the environment and health. Computer recycling is the only green way out that will help us contain the spread of these toxins.
The pollution can spread easily when rain washes away these chemicals to newer areas. When water, containing these chemicals, is used for growing plants, or when animals drink such water, or when humans use the water for drinking and other household chores, these chemicals can easily enter the food chain. Since the effect of these chemicals can only be seen in the long run, computer recycling is essential to avoid such problems and protect our future.
Apart from direct pollution, there is also the issue of sustainability. A lot of energy goes into the manufacture of these components, right from extracting the materials from the earth’s crust. All this work can be saved if we recycle e-waste. Thus by simple computer recycling, you can actually save tons of carbon dioxide from being emitted into the atmosphere and reduce your carbon footprint. The materials that are present in old computers are quite similar to the ones used in modern day computers. In addition, the old computers usually have higher quantities of these, and thus a great source of usable materials. This is also beneficial for the companies since they can spend less on the components, thus improving their bottom lines.
Though newer technologies come up every day, the materials that are used in these technologies remain mostly the same. The amount of such materials in old computers is even more compared to the newer ones. Thus throwing them away irresponsibly is a matter of concern. With better computers and computer related products emerging everyday and with people buying more and discarding their old ones, the problem of computer waste will further worsen. Thus consumers, companies and even the governments should realize this and encourage computer recycling. This would lie at the heart of our future sustainable growth and the kind of planet we leave behind for our children.
Rodd H. Glover is an avid outdoors-man who cares about the future of our generations. Computer recycling should be mandatory on all PC’s as well as electronics recycling for everything with precious metals.
