What is e-waste? E-waste, which is short for electronic waste, refers to any broken, trashed, or unwanted electrical or electronic appliance. Examples of e-waste -computer -tv's -vcr's -modems -printers -speakers -fax machines -monitors -keyboards -computer mice -scanners -cell phones -radios -alarm clocks -hair dryers -curling irons -satellite receivers -refrigerators Why is e-waste a problem? E-waste poses a great environmental danger because many of the internal components are considered toxic. For example, a typical computer monitor may contain more than 5% lead measured by weight. The unsustainability of discarded electronics is another reason why e-waste poses such a great threat.

What to do with e-waste? E-waste is very difficult to recycle because each piece of electronic equipment is unique in its characteristics and make up. In addition, most electronic equipment contains a substantial amount of fire retardant plastic. This makes recycling the entire unit very difficult. E-waste recycling today In the early 1990s, many European countries banned the disposal of e-waste in landfills. The triggered the beginning of the e-waste processing industry in Europe. Although the United States tends to avoid e-waste disposal and landfills on its soil, there are some states that take part in the dismantling of electronic equipment. The processing includes dismantling metals, plastics, and circuit boards. California is one state that has taken a proactive approach in regards to the recycling of e-waste; a bill was passed that introduced a recycling fee on all new monitors and televisions.