Recently, we published an article about electronic waste and the threat that it poses to the modern world. Non bio-degradable and even toxic electronic waste has been piling up for decades as we are fervently searching for solutions in new materials, recycle and reuse. Whether new materials help us bring the problem of e-waste under control is yet to be seen. On the other hand, technology reformists, social activists and environmentalists are constantly suggesting ways to reduce waste through optimal and conscious use. Our article on the issue gathered some very intriguing and valuable views on LinkedIn from experts. Here are some of the best opinions expressed by people on various groups
Career and Employment Specialist, Speaker on dealing with Satisfying Employment
The disposable mindset of electronics will eventually be devastating for almost all of us. “Get the latest and greatest” has got to stop. Reclamation/recycling is a fraction of what it should or could be. Often it is hazardous to those working in that industry (including children).
Software upgrades are a solution as is consumer nations needing to just come to our senses.
Retired
Yes, However, new materials, such as Graphene, will help.
Stagista presso S.A.P.L.O
I read the article, and I agree with the GOOD and BAD things, but something in the UGLY ones seems to me, and to my knowledge, exceeding the actual impact, as abort and DNA damage.
Still, even if it were true, I thing, it should be explained better and deeper, because of their importance, and avoid a superficial information.
Estagiária na LNEG
It doesn’t surprise me. Today in 6 months each one have a new phone, technology is cheaper so it is a environmental problem as much a social one. Even with new less polluting materials we should assume our responsability and think each time that we buy a new gadget.
Experienced Freelance Consultant, in High End Enterprise Management , Project Management, Supply Chain Management.
The BAD & UGLY details are mind boggling & depressing.
No matter what efforts are taken towards recycling & effective disposals, the negative impact on the human body are the most scariest.
As individuals,an earnest effort in minimizing consumption, reducing craving for buying unnecessarily newer versions (without knowing how the discarded stuff gets handled/treated) are some steps we can all take, to do our bit, in reducing the generation of such e-wastes.
Manufacturers & marketers of all such products also need to specify the respective “product-life-cycles” of each of their wares, specifying to consumers, how starting from design/manufacture/testing/transportation/eventually to the efficient, responsible ,disposable of the said product after it completes it’s working life shall be done.
Consumers need to get themselves educated about this truth & become very demanding in seeking these inputs from the producers of these goods.
Over a period a voluntary disclosure of these efforts or a punitive legislation shall be the only recourse.
However, the vested interests are too many, who are presently also the most vocal, in expressing environmental concerns ironically so.!!!
The views and opinions expressed here have been collated from LinkedIn group discussions on the article titled The Good, the Bad and the Ugly: E-Waste published in TheLocalBrand.com on 3rd December 2014. It is recommended that you please read the original article for reference.
Marty Huggins
