elektronijätteen

Elektronijäte, also known as e-waste or waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), refers to discarded electrical or electronic devices. This includes a wide range of items such as computers, televisions, mobile phones, refrigerators, and other appliances that have reached the end of their useful life. The rapid pace of technological advancement and the increasing consumer demand for new products contribute to a significant and growing volume of e-waste globally.

The composition of electronic waste is diverse, containing valuable materials like gold, silver, copper, and platinum, as well as hazardous substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and brominated flame retardants. Improper disposal of e-waste can lead to environmental pollution, contaminating soil and water with these toxic elements. It can also pose risks to human health if these substances enter the food chain or are released into the atmosphere.

Due to these environmental and health concerns, the management of e-waste has become a critical issue. Many countries have implemented regulations and policies to promote the responsible collection, recycling, and disposal of electronic waste. Recycling processes aim to recover valuable materials for reuse and to safely manage hazardous components. Extended producer responsibility schemes are also in place, placing the onus on manufacturers to manage the end-of-life handling of their products. Consumers play a vital role by participating in e-waste collection programs and choosing to repair or donate electronics when possible, rather than discarding them.