Toxic trash
The weight of the world’s electronic junk is heavier than the Great Wall of China.
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In the U.S. alone, people toss at least 151 million phones in the trash every year — a practice that can cause hazardous and toxic chemicals to seep into the environment.
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A European nonprofit called the WEEE Forum started E-Waste day in 2018.
Its purpose is to raise awareness of the colossal amount of devices people trash every year, and to provide resources for proper ways to dispose of old electronics.
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This growing crisis poses a threat to our environmental wellbeing — toxic waste can contaminate water and soil, cause illness, and contribute to carbon emissions.
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The total weight of all e-waste is 63.3 million tons. The Great Wall weighs in at 58 million tons.
By recycling or repairing your electronics, you can extend their life cycle and reduce the amount of impact you have on the environment.
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In the U.S., E-Waste recycling programs vary state-to-state.
This EPA page can get you started with links to your region’s hazardous waste disposal services.