Defining E-Waste
E-Waste, short for electronic waste, can be any outdated or obsolete appliance or electronic device found in offices, homes and pants pockets. , Computers, printers and cell phones are all common examples of e-waste.
In this technology-driven age, the amount of E-Waste is growing because the useful lifespan for devices and products is getting shorter and shorter. Consumer demand for “the next best” thing is increasing and companies are answering that demand by updating and improving devices and equipment quicker than ever before.
How much e-waste does the US generate? The EPA’s most recent e-waste report shows that we got rid of 142,000 computers and over 416,000 mobile devices EVERY DAY!! In 2012, we generated 3.412 million tons of e-waste in the U.S. Of this amount, only 1 million tons or 29.2 % was recycled, according to the EPA (up from 25% in 2011). The rest was trashed – in landfills or incinerators. Worldwide: 20 to 50 million metric tons of e-waste is disposed of each year
The question then becomes, “What do we do with all this stuff?”
The answer is to call PAR-Recycle Works. Our team ensures that every item we take is disposed of in a safe and environmentally conscious way.
Why E-Waste Matters
Increased regulation and a better understanding of the environment dictate that many materials in E-Waste simply can’t be tossed into a landfill. In fact state law requires the safe disposal of e-waste because these products contain hazardous elements that can cause real and lasting damage to our natural environment and public health.