Tech makes life easy. We all love our electronics—smartphones, laptops, tablets—you name it! But with this love comes a not-so-fun problem: electronic waste, or e-waste. Whether you’re in Iowa or anywhere else, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and tackle this challenge together.
E-waste is simply the stuff we throw away when our old electronics break down or when we upgrade to the latest model. This can include everything from outdated computers to old TVs. Unfortunately, many of these devices contain harmful materials like lead and mercury. If not handled properly, these can seep into our soil and water, creating health risks for people and wildlife alike.
Iowa isn’t off the hook when it comes to e-waste. With more people using tech in their daily lives, we’re generating a lot of electronic junk. It’s estimated that Iowans toss out hundreds of thousands of tons of electronic devices every year, and many end up in landfills, which is not great for our environment. In fact, to give you an idea of how harmful they can be; electronics may only make up approximately 1% of the solid waste stream in Iowa, but they represent 70% of the toxic and heavy metals in our landfills.
But don’t worry! Iowa has some cool initiatives in place. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is working hard to promote responsible recycling and disposal. Programs like the Iowa Electronic Waste Program help make it easier to recycle your old electronics through collection events and drop-off spots.
At Electronic Asset Security (EAS), we’re all about making e-waste management simple and effective. We know tech can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help! Here’s how we do it:
Let’s zoom out for a second. The e-waste issue isn’t just a local problem; it’s a global one. The Global E-waste Monitor reports that around 53.6 million metric tons of e-waste were generated worldwide in 2019, and that number is set to grow! Countries like Germany and Japan are stepping up with strict recycling laws and initiatives to promote a circular economy, where we reuse and recycle instead of just tossing things away.
So, how can we all pitch in to tackle this e-waste issue? Here are some friendly suggestions:
E-waste may seem daunting, but together, we can make a real impact. At EAS, we’re passionate about helping you manage your electronic waste responsibly and sustainably. By focusing on secure data destruction, eco-friendly recycling, and asset recovery, we can help protect our planet and keep valuable resources in circulation.
So, let’s take action together! Every small step counts and your efforts can lead to a cleaner, greener world for all of us. Let’s turn our love for tech into a commitment to sustainability! Stop by with your old tech and do your part today!