POLOKWANE – Today is International E-Waste Day which places the spotlight on the dangers of e-waste (electronic waste) that is not disposed of correctly
E-waste refers to unusable electronic devices no longer in use due to upgrades or malfunctioning. These devices often end up in drawers and later in the bin where it is disposed of with household waste.
Polokwane Observer spoke to the director of E-Waste Limpopo, Cirienne Janse van Rensburg, about the dangers of e-waste.
“The toxic and harmful components of e-waste is dangerous waste and should be handled, kept, moved and disposed of according to regulations published in the Government Gazette.”
Some of these toxic components are:
• Mercury (A toxic heavy metal that bioaccumulates in the body, causing brain and liver damage if ingested or inhaled).
• Lead (Short-term exposure to high levels of lead can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, convulsions, coma or even death).
• Chlorofluorocarbons (“CFCs”) has a harmful effect on the ozone layer, which results in an increased incidence of skin cancer in humans and in genetic damage to many other organisms.
“We may not consider a redundant piece of technology to be hazardous but it is the components of the item that are dangerous. It has effects on human health as well as the environment.”
E-waste contains substances that emits dioxin when burned.
“This results in health risks such as respiratory irritation, breathing difficulties, coughing and choking. It can also result in tremors, comas or even death.”
Cirienne further explained that people are exposed to these substances through inhalation, skin contact or by eating or drinking it.
People who work with e-waste are also exposed to electrical shocks, skin disease and eye irritation.
“The improper handling and disposal of e-waste can have significant, irreversible effects on the environment, such as the pollution and degradation of air and water quality and soil contamination.”
To dispose of your e-waste visit E-Waste Limpopo in Asbes Street, Laboria.
