E waste has been defined as

“Waste electrical and electronic equipment, whole or in part or rejects from their manufacturing and repair process, which are intended to be discarded.” It is a popular informal name for electronic products nearing the end of their “useful life”.

Like hazardous waste, the problem of e-waste has become an immediate and long-term concern as its unregulated accumulation and recycling can lead to major environmental problems endangering human health. Although, e-waste recycling has proved to have various environmental benefits, there are numerous myths around it. Let’s dive in and find out what are the common myths and let’s debunk them.

1.Electronics can be disposed in the trash, without causing any harm

Disposing of electronics in the trash will cause extensive damage to the environment as the toxic material in E-waste gets mixed with air, water and soil and pose serious health issues.

Lead, cadmium and lithium which are found in e-waste are very hazardous and stunts human development. Thus, E-waste Management is essential and must be handled by authorised recyclers like Eco Raksha

2.Data is erased during recycling

               Data is usually left behind even after the conventional data removal techniques are used to erase data like file deletion, reformatting etc. Given the criticality of information today, it is very important for companies to ensure that vital confidential information is not misused and cybercriminals do not have any access to sensitive data. Thus, it is important to choose certified data destruction services like BitRaser software and Degaussing offered by certified recyclers like Eco Raksha

3.E-waste recycling is Complicated 

E-waste recycling is accessible and can be customised as per the customer’s needs and is not complex.

IT companies, banks, educational institutions can request for pickup of e-waste and a customised solution for disposal of E-waste from Eco Raksha

4.Old devices need not be recycled and does not make a difference if they are recycled.

Every time an electronic device is recycled, it significantly reduces carbon emissions, keeps toxic waste out of landfills and makes raw material mining less in demand. Responsible recycling contributes to a circular economy and thereby contributing to a greener environment.

5.E-waste is only a problem for Developing Countries

E-waste is a global issue and whether with developed or developing countries, it poses serious complications. Many developed and richer countries export their e-waste to poorer nations, where it is recycled at recycling plants. However, the problem is not solved well enough, as the countries with advanced recycling systems also end up with significant quantities of E-waste end up in landfills, contributing to environmental pollution.

        Measures must be taken up by governments of countries to recycle E-waste. Many companies are R2 certified (Responsible Recycling) and hence compliant with International and local recycling regulations and standards.

6.Recycling E-waste is Expensive

Recycling plants are expensive, however sometimes you can get paid a handsome amount to recycle. If you E-waste is in good condition and can still be usable with refurbishing, the money that you fetch for the refurbished products is pretty high.

7.Donating and recycling is the same

Donating your old electronics might be a good deed and earn you some brownie points. But, always check the condition and usability of the products before you do so. If you donate an old computer which is about ten years old, this might only collect dust at the donor’s place rather than being of any use. Such old electronics must be sent to recycling plants, so that hazardous leaks from these devices can be prevented.