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October 12, 2008 10:23:43 AM CDT

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Recycled 'E-Waste' Can Be Toxic

Posted Jul 7, 08 5:59 AM CDT in Technology 

(Newser) – Recycling old computers, cell phones, and TVs may sound like a good idea—but be sure you know the destination before you dump such material, USA Today advises. While such “e-waste” recycling programs are springing up everywhere these days, some pose a threat. Often, the materials end up in developing nations, spreading toxins through the air and water.

In some cases, recycling groups ensure the e-waste is properly sorted and put to new uses. But in other situations, brokers sell the materials to developing countries hoping to find precious metals among the piles. Leftover toxins can harm the laborers who explore the waste and others exposed to the chemicals. “People really should ask questions about where the material is going,” warned an expert.

Source USA Today

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A software firm president unloads a truck full of old computer equipment Nov. 15, 2007 during an e-cycling event near the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn.   (AP Photo/Dawn Villella)
Jose Porras takes apart a used computer at an electronics recycling center on World Environment Day in Ciudad Colon, Costa Rica, Thursday, June 5, 2008.   (AP Photo/Kent Gilbert)
People unload computers and various other electronics from their car as they drop them off at an electronic waste recycling event in New York's Union Square Park, Jan. 6, 2008.   (AP Photo/Tina Fineberg)
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environment  • consumer electronics  • recycling  • toxin  • developing countries  • e waste


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