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Electronics

Is E-waste Hazardous?

Although it may not seem obvious, electronic waste (e-waste) is in fact hazardous to both human and environmental health.  The rapid advances in computer technology mean that we as consumers are continually upgrading and increasingly discarding.  E-waste not only takes up space in landfills, but it is a major source of toxic chemicals like lead, mercury, cadmium, zinc, beryllium, nickel, and brominated flame retardants7, all of which can leach into the environment and our bodies.

What to do with E-Waste

Electronic Waste, commonly referred to as e-waste may contain both hazardous materials and valuable resources.   Electronic waste may contain toxic materials, such as lead, mercury and hexavalent chromium that, if improperly handled, may be released into the environment and threaten our health.   E-waste may also contain valuable resources that can be reused or recycled to conserve virgin resources. 


In an effort to prevent these materials from entering landfills, the Monroe County Solid Waste Program and the Habitat for Humanity Restore are partnering to offer collection of electronic waste on an ongoing basis.

The Restore will be accepting:computer systems ,monitors, CPU’s, printers, keyboards, peripherals, laptops and televisions (no console TVs). The Habitat for Humanity Restore is located at 840 LaPlaisance Road in Monroe. They will accept materials from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday.  For questions, please contact the Restore at (734) 243-1108 or the Monroe County Solid Waste Coordinator at (734) 240-7909.

For more information regarding electronic waste visit the Environmental Protection Agency website.

“E-waste” is a loosely defined term that generally includes:

  • Computers and their peripheral equipment
  • Televisions
  • VCRs and DVD players
  • Radios and stereo equipment
  • Photocopiers
  • Fax machines
  • Cell phones
  • Video games
  • Video cameras

Planned obsolescence and the rapid advancements in technology caught us off-guard in terms of waste management and electronics make up a rising percentage of the solid waste stream.

To minimize your impact on the environment, first REDUCE the amount of electronics you use and discard by upgrading your computer instead of buying a new one.  Research manufacturers who practice product stewardship.  When consumers demand through their purchasing power that companies be environmentally responsible, they can change the face of the market!

Read the Guide to Environmentally Preferable Computer Purchasing provided by the Northwest Product Stewardship Council.



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