We’re often careful about how we treat biological waste.
All these gadgets constitute electronic waste, also known as e-waste.
You might not have paid attention to the dangers of e-waste in the past.
But here are some of its damaging effectsand they’re even scarier than you may think.
The majority of them are either harmless or beneficial in one way or another.
A notable role of beneficial microorganisms in the soil is that they help with nutrient cycling.
However, beneficial root microbes may die if the soil contains toxic chemicals resulting from incessant e-waste disposal.
Invariably, whether instantly or later, this event contributes to poor atmospheric air circulation and soil infertility.
So, carnivores could lose most of their food supply due to either death or possible migration.
E-Waste Contaminates Underground and Surface Water
E-waste doesn’t often remain wherever you dump it.
Metallic parts and nanoparticles from it can scrape off and find their way into water bodies, too.
In essence, erosion and flood can wash off metals and nanoparticles from e-waste into surrounding water bodies.
Additionally, heavy metals can sink deep into the ground and contaminate underground water.
Invariably, this underground water also washes into bigger water bodies.
A more disturbing scenario is when e-waste-associated metals dissolve in water and mix with it.
Bioaccumulation starts when plants absorb these toxic chemicals into their tissues.
And when found in water bodies, fishes can ingest a significant amount of lead into their tissue.
Invariably, animals and humans who eat such plants or fishes get a share of these toxic chemicals.
And these accumulate over time until there’s enough to poison vital organsnotably the kidney and the liver.
However, long-term exposure to e-waste not only affects adults but poses a significant health risk to neonates.
They’re even at a greater risk as they have a more vulnerable immune system.
Exposure to e-waste has, unfortunately, resulted in stillbirth in some reported cases.
Lead poisoning, for instance, can also cause permanent deafness in children.
This is common in most middle to low-income countries, where people smuggle and recycle e-waste for money.
Related:How to Recycle Old PCs, Phones, and Other Tech
7.
E-Waste Disposal Threatens Data Security
Data security is as important to individuals as much as it is to businesses.
Throwing them away immediately after they get spoilt isn’t the best data security practice.
Even if you think you’ve wiped them clean, some residual but sensitive data may still lurk around.
So, someone with an ulterior motive could steal your information.
Therefore, consider recycling your e-waste in a certified recycling industry.
Alternatively, transform it into other valuable home tools instead.
