There are many misconceptions about electronic waste, and in a digital world, it is vital to understand why recycling e-waste is essential. E-waste makes up 70 percent of the earth’s toxic waste, and as technology advances, e-waste becomes a worse problem. Responsible IT asset management and disposition is the primary method of e-waste reduction. However, many believe their actions do not matter and that small devices aren’t worth the effort. We’ve provided information on five common myths to help consumers learn more about the importance of proper IT asset disposition.
Recycling doesn’t matter.
This might be the most common myth surrounding waste in general. When it comes to electronic waste, every action helps reduce the amount of harmful chemicals released into the environment. Many consumers believe their old electronics will end up in a landfill no matter what they do, but most landfills do not accept e-waste because of the dangers it creates.
Recycling wastes more energy than it’s worth.
While recycling takes energy, it removes some complexity from the manufacturing process and provides used materials, eliminating many steps from the supply chain before products are recirculated. Thus, recycling is much more efficient than obtaining new raw materials.
Small devices aren’t worth recycling.
Because desktops, laptops, printers, and other larger electronic devices take up more space, many people believe that small devices aren’t worth recycling, but smaller devices outnumber the larger ones. An estimated 6.06 billion smartphones were in use globally at the end of 2020, and even small devices such as smartphones, watches, and tablets have components that can be refurbished and reused. Additionally, most electronics are made with lithium-ion batteries and can become dangerous when not disposed of correctly. Even storing an old iPhone can be hazardous if it overheats.
It’s too risky because of hackers.
Today, data security is a primary concern among many when it comes to retiring their old electronics. Many people are afraid to recycle their electronics because of data theft, but there is nothing to fear when you dispose of them correctly. Many end-of-life facilities like HOBI specialize in data security and erasure and take special security precautions when storing devices. HOBI specifically uses an internally developed data erasure tool that completely erases all data from a device, and any device that cannot be erased is destroyed via shredding technology. This eliminates any chance that data can fall into the wrong hands.
E-waste isn’t that harmful.
This may be the most dangerous myth to believe. E-waste is different because it cannot simply be thrown out with the rest of the garbage. Electronics are made with toxic metals that will harm the environment and can be detrimental to human health when disposed of incorrectly. Smaller devices tossed out with municipal waste and ending up in landfills pose risks to residents in surrounding areas. By soaking into the groundwater, the chemicals will contaminate the surrounding water supply and result in extreme illness for the animals and people who ingest it.
Do not rely on myths about e-waste. Recycling helps protect the environment, preserves resources, and reduces the need for brand-new devices. HOBI International, Inc. is a premier IT asset management and disposition enterprise with more than 30 years of experience in the industry. We focus on maximizing economic return and mitigating potential environmental liability.
For more information about our ITAD services, call 817-814-2620 or contact HOBI at sales@hobi.com.