Question 34 - Sample Paper 1 by Teachoo - Teachoo Sample Paper

What is e-waste and why is it a problem for the environment and society? Explain the proper disposal methods of used electronic gadgets and the benefits of doing so. 

Answer:

Answer by student

E-waste is the term used for electronic waste, which is the discarded or obsolete electronic devices and components. It is a problem for the environment and society because it contains hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, cadmium, etc. that can pollute the soil, water and air . It can also pose health risks to the people who handle or dispose of it without proper precautions. Moreover, it wastes valuable resources and energy that could be reused or recycled. The proper disposal methods of used electronic gadgets are:

• Donating or selling them to someone who can use them
• Returning them to the manufacturer or retailer for recycling or refurbishing
• Taking them to an authorized e-waste collection center or facility
• Disposing of them in a designated e-waste bin or landfill  

The benefits of doing so are:

• Reducing the environmental impact and health hazards of e-waste

• Conserving natural resources and energy

• Supporting the circular economy and creating jobs

• Preventing data theft and identity fraud

Detailed answer by teachoo

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• E-waste is the term used for electronic waste, which is the discarded or obsolete electronic devices and components. It includes items such as computers, laptops, mobile phones, tablets, TVs, printers, scanners, cameras, etc.
• It is a problem for the environment and society because it contains hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, cadmium, etc. that can pollute the soil, water and air. These materials can leach into the ground or evaporate into the atmosphere, causing soil contamination, water pollution and air pollution. They can also affect the biodiversity and ecosystems of the affected areas.
• It can also pose health risks to the people who handle or dispose of it without proper precautions. The workers who dismantle or burn e-waste can be exposed to toxic fumes or dust that can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, eye damage, neurological disorders, cancer, etc. The people who live near e-waste dumps or landfills can also suffer from similar health issues due to the exposure to contaminated water or air.
• Moreover, it wastes valuable resources and energy that could be reused or recycled. E-waste contains metals such as copper, gold, silver, platinum, etc. that can be recovered and reused for making new products. It also contains plastics and other materials that can be recycled or repurposed for other uses. By throwing away e-waste, we are losing these resources and increasing the demand for mining and extraction of new materials. This also consumes more energy and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
• The proper disposal methods of used electronic gadgets are:
• Donating or selling them to someone who can use them: This is the best way to extend the life span of electronic devices and reduce e-waste generation. By giving away or selling our old gadgets to someone who needs them, we are not only saving money and space but also helping someone else. We are also reducing the need for buying new devices and thus saving resources and energy.
• Returning them to the manufacturer or retailer for recycling or refurbishing: This is another way to ensure that our old gadgets are handled properly and safely. Many manufacturers and retailers offer take-back programs or incentives for customers who return their old devices for recycling or refurbishing. They either reuse the parts or components of the devices for making new products or send them to authorized recyclers who process them in an environmentally friendly manner.
• Taking them to an authorized e-waste collection center or facility: This is another option for disposing of our old gadgets in a responsible way. There are many e-waste collection centers or facilities that accept various types of electronic devices and components for recycling or disposal. They have trained staff and equipment to handle e-waste safely and efficiently. They also follow the regulations and standards for e-waste management and disposal.
• Disposing of them in a designated e-waste bin or landfill: This is the last resort for disposing of our old gadgets if none of the above options are available or feasible. We should only do this if we are sure that the bin or landfill is designated for e-waste only and not mixed with other types of waste. We should also make sure that we remove any batteries, SIM cards, memory cards, etc. from our devices before disposing of them to prevent any leakage or data theft.
• The benefits of doing so are:
• Reducing the environmental impact and health hazards of e-waste: By disposing of our old gadgets properly, we are preventing them from ending up in places where they can harm the environment and people. We are also reducing the amount of e-waste that is generated and accumulated in the world.
• Conserving natural resources and energy: By disposing of our old gadgets properly, we are enabling their reuse or recycling which can save natural resources and energy. We are also reducing the demand for new materials and products which can reduce the pressure on the environment and the economy.
• Supporting the circular economy and creating jobs: By disposing of our old gadgets properly, we are supporting the circular economy which is a system that aims to minimize waste and maximize value. We are also creating jobs and opportunities for the people who are involved in the e-waste management and recycling industry.
• Preventing data theft and identity fraud: By disposing of our old gadgets properly, we are protecting our personal and sensitive data from falling into the wrong hands. We are also preventing identity fraud and cybercrime that can result from data theft.

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