All in all, my opinion on electronic waste will always be the same.While researching the topic for this assignment I came across a website that explains it the best they could. It stated that US alone exports 80% of their e-waste to China, India and Pakistan. At first I honestly didn't believe any of this when I asked my older sister's opinion but when I read this article I realized it had to be true. Then a question kept crossing my mind 'How could you throw your garbage in other people's countries'? I mean, it's from your own province you can't just ship it off elsewhere. In conclusion, e-waste will always cause controversy but should always be managed with caution.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
E-Waste Consequences
E-waste is the term referring to discarded electronics and electrical products. Although some say it might be convenient, they are also just beginning to realize how many consequences it has. In the long run, too much exposure to these toxins is dangerous and could strongly affect your health. Lead can attack the nervous system and if swallowed will develop blood anemia, grim stomach aches, kidney damage, brain damage and more. Mercury is also hazardous and will attack the central nervous system.
Mineral Properties in E-Waste
The most everyday mineral found in electronic waste is aluminum. It is most prevailing because it goes into cell phones and transportation (cars, bicycles, aircraft, etc). It originate's from Russia, Indonesia and Suriname. The second most abundant mineral in the Earth's continental crust is quartz which is the most common mineral for jewelry, television's, computers and hard stone carvings. A major mining location for quartz is Spruce Pine in North Carolina (US). Another popular e-waste mineral is lithium because it is usually used to create cell phone batteries and such. It is also hazardous to health because if inhaled can irritate eyes, nose and throat or cause lung damage. Most lithium comes from South Africa, Chile and Argentina. Copper is yet another popular mineral when it comes to e-waste. It is found in computer chips, roof structures, etc. It's originating country's are Mexico, Peru and the US.
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