The truth about electronic waste in our landfills

The truth about Electronic Waste in the landfill

We recently wrapped up an online video shoot about responsible electronic recycling, our company’s processes and procedures as it relates to data security, proper Freon removal, and safety. Included in this video was some interesting facts about exactly what is contained in electronic items and the potential risks involved with not recycling them properly.

The first and most glaring fact was quite startling – electronic waste accounts for only 2% of our landfills but is responsible for around 70% of the toxins. That is a staggering fact indeed.

Below is a VERY short list of some of the toxins that exist in many of your household electronics…

·        Sulphur – found in lead acid batteries. Can cause liver, kidney, AND heart damage

·        BFRs – a flame retardant used in production of plastics and most electronics. Health issues include problems with the central nervous system, liver, and thyroid

·        Cadmium – found in nickel cadmium batteries (rechargeable batteries). Cadmium can leak into the soil and cause significant damage to the eco system. Cadmium is related to deficits in behavior, learning, and motor skills in children.

The complete list of dangerous toxins contained in household electronics is enormous. I’m sure in the coming weeks and months I’ll touch on more toxins that you never even thought about. There is hope however – all of this landfill pollution is avoidable. How?

Demand that your city, company, non-profit, etc uses an R2 Certified, Level 4 Certified (MO Department of Natural Resources), electronics recycler. MRC Electronics is a locally owned and operated company that possesses those certifications.

For more information about MRC Computer and Electronics Recycling or to schedule a tour, feel free to call us at 636-223-0150 or visit us on the web at www.midwrc.net

Have a great weekend!

Scottie Farrow

MRC Electronics Recycling