In this age of computer technology we need our computers but it is fast becoming one of the worst polluter of the environment. Electronic companies are slowly moving towards environmental sustainability. We can encourage them by buying those equipments that are the least damaging. Below I least eight reasons for doing so.
- Computers and other electronics are the fastest growing solid waste filling the landfills. Surprisingly here in the U.S. only 10% of electronics are recycled. This is mainly because people are not well informed on how to properly recycle their unwanted computers and other electronic gadgets. Most people simply dump their old computers in the trash.
- Computers are still being made with too many toxic materials and manufacturers are too slow in reducing the amount of these hazardous chemicals.
- People on the average buy a new computer every two to three years because of the need to upgrade. This is some time known as planned obsolescence. Planned obsolescence is a manufacturing decision to make consumer products to last only so long. Consumers will then go back to buy the new version of the products again and again. This is absolutely environmentally unsustainable.
- It is possible to have a computer that serves our need as well as be environmentally friendly and we should move in that direction quickly before we pollute any more of the air water and soil.
- Computer use takes a lot of energy. It is one of the highest energy guzzlers. This too can be changed. Manufacturer's can increase research to create computers that are l cutting edge but consume less energy.
- Manufacturers and retailers of electronics goods are too slow in considering the impact their product is having on the environment at the end of its useful life. Because of pressures from the public and environmental groups these companies have improved their recycling and take back programs. But it is still not as good as it could be.
- Hazardous electronic and computer waste are being shipped to poor countries illegally where they are recycled in the most environmentally unsafe manner. A good example is the town of Guiyu where most of the illegal electronic waste shipped to China ends up. This story was shown by 60 minutes a few months ago. People are paid eight dollars an hour to dismantle electronics with crude tools or their bare hands. They use no protection against all the toxins and fumes that is generated. The air is filled with pollutants and the town's river is a dark in color and unsafe to use.
- If we the consumers demand that manufacturers adhere to the strictest environmental guidelines, they have no choice but to follow it. So we should vote with our dollars by purchasing the most environmentally friendly computers.
Buying the most eco friendly computer products is the best thing you can do to minimize toxic e-waste. |
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