E-waste Can Be Hazardous Waste
Many electronic devices contain hazardous chemicals. If they aren’t disposed of safely, those chemicals can pose a safety hazard to people, animals and the environment. In addition to contaminating soil, hazardous wastes can pollute the air and leach into water sources.
Here are a few other examples of the hazardous waste electronics hold.
- Leaded glass: Computers and television screens contain leaded glass, which is a poisonous heavy metal.
- Cancer-causing elements: Batteries carry explosive and cancer-causing elements such as cadmium, lithium and lead.
- Mercury: Some appliances like gas hot water heaters and chest freezers contain mercury switches. When mercury isn’t properly disposed, it may create serious health issues such as respiratory and skin disorders.
