Electronic waste, commonly referred to as e-waste, is discarded electronic devices including phones, televisions, or computer monitors. Most Canadians have some form of e-waste in their home, and may be considering how to throw it away properly because of the many dangers associated with doing so incorrectly.
President and CEO of the Electronic Products Recycling Association, Cliff Hacking, explains some of the detrimental environmental effects that occur when disposing of e-waste in a laissez-faire manner.
“In terms of hazards, there are certainly things that are of concern, whether it’s for the water table or the environment at large. We as an electronic industry have largely stopped using leaded glass, but there are still lead in the big TV’s which we don’t see a lot of anymore, but frankly are still coming back in the reverse supply chain, or monitors in people’s computer screens. This can be dangerous.”
Lead is a toxic substance in various forms of e-waste, and is incredibly dangerous to humans. Electronic waste contains countless other toxins that can contaminate landfills, and potentially find its way into water supplies. This is why it is so important to dispose of such items through a professional recycler, rather than leaving them on the side of the road on garbage day.
Locally, Londoners have many options in terms ditching their e-waste. That Metal Guy for example is a service owned by Tony Laviolette. His group, like many others in the city, offer free pickup of electronic waste. He describes where and how those in the city can dispose of their old electronics safely.
“You can dispose of it in several ways. There is a city drop-off. Also, there’s a scrapyard on the east end there, where you can drop of for free out front, they have secured location. And we do provide a free at home or business pick up for anything that is electronic as well.” said Laviolette
Clearly, Londoners have many options in terms of disposing of their electronic waste safely, in turn preventing negative effects on the environment.
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