Electronic gadgets have become an indispensible element of our daily life. We use it to navigate everyday traffic, research recipes, and even capture memories around us. However, with rapid technological growth comes a serious environmental challenge: the e-waste epidemic.
E-waste is the term used to describe outmoded electronic equipment such as cellphones, laptop computers, gaming consoles, and their components. Malaysians alone generate about 365,000 tonnes of e-waste every year, which equates to more than 10 kg of e-waste per person. Malaysia, like many other nations, is battling with the growing volume of electronic trash created each year, and we must move quickly to decrease e-waste and protect the environment for future generations.
E-waste contributes approximately 70% of total toxic waste, which comprises dangerous elements such as lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, and flame retardants. Because of poor e-waste disposal in landfills and incinerators, which results in the release of these chemicals into the air, water, and soil, it can represent a substantial risk to human health and the environment.
As a result, we should be more mindful of our electronics and anticipate where they will be in the next ten years. Here are a few strategies for avoiding this potential problem:
- Several big manufacturers provide accessible recycling solutions, including particular programs for recycling electronic devices through their trade-in programs, which allow you to swap your obsolete equipment for gift cards or discounts on new purchases. One such program is Huawei’s Trade-In Programme, which allows you to trade in any of your previous smartphones for the HUAWEI MATE 50 Series or the newest HUAWEI P60 PRO with additional RM500 rebates and goodies on top of the value of the old smartphone. This deal is valid through July 31, 2023, so visit your local Huawei Experience Store now to obtain your exclusive rebates and discounts!
- Think about donating them to friends, organizations, or community service projects. Many people or organizations can still profit from using an outdated smartphone, computer, or television. You are not only preventing harmful e-waste from ending up in landfills, but you are also contributing to the well-being of others. It’s a win-win situation that will not only give your electronics fresh life but also reduce the environmental impact.
- Set a purchase limit – By limiting your purchases, we can control the demand for extra gadgets per individual. This can encourage conscious consumption and make the best use of current technologies, so contributing to a more sustainable future.
- An excellent technique for reducing e-waste is to choose items with an ecologically friendly seal on their packaging, indicating that they were manufactured using recycled or easily recyclable materials.
Addressing the e-waste problem will enable collective action at both the individual and social levels, allowing us to better comprehend the need of reducing and recycling e-waste. Malaysians may take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable, cleaner, and greener future by participating in initiatives such as donation, mindful shopping, and trade-in programs.