E-Waste

Electronic waste, e-waste or Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) is a waste type consisting
of any broken or unwanted electrical or electronic appliance. It is a point of concern considering that many
components of such equipment are considered toxic and are not biodegradable.
Electronic waste includes computers, entertainment electronics, mobile phones and other items that have
been discarded by their original users.
Electronic waste is a valuable source for secondary raw materials, if treated properly. However if not treated
properly it is major source of toxins.
Electronic devices, including audio-visual components (televisions, VCRs, stereo equipment), mobile
phones and other hand-held devices, and computer components, contain valuable elements and substances
suitable for reclamation, including lead, copper, and gold. They also contain a plethora of toxic substances,
such as dioxins, PCBs, cadmium, chromium, radioactive isotopes, and mercury.
The recycling process works by mechanically separating the metals, plastics and circuit boards contained in
the appliance. When this is done on a large scale at an electronic waste recycling plant, component recovery
can be achieved in a cost-effective manner.
