Are Laptops Bad for the Environment?
The short answer to this question is yes, laptops are bad for the environment—at least the current models are. The bigger question is what can be done about it? How can we fix it? For the answer to these questions and others, read on!
The problem
Electronic waste, or e-waste, is a growing concern for companies, cities and consumers alike. As we all become more dependent on and addicted to our computers, mobile devices and other gadgets, we generate more waste than ever before. According to a report from Greenpeace , we’re generating about 40 million tons of e-waste each year – 4 pounds per person each day. That’s almost as much as 20,000 (car) ships filled with landfills! Most people dispose of their electronics by simply throwing them away. But there’s really no such thing as away when it comes to trash – especially e-waste.
The solution
A recent study published in Environmental Science and Technology found that some of the worst offenders among electronic devices had a negative impact on Earth. E-readers, USB drives, and even cell phones posed a problem when it came to toxic substances and heavy metals like cadmium. Fortunately, laptops are one of them! That said, there are still things you can do to ensure your laptop isn’t too bad for Mother Nature.
How to recycle your laptop?
With laptops being some of today’s most valuable gadgets, it is important to make sure that you are recycling yours properly. If you wish to dispose of your laptop in an environmentally friendly way, there are a few ways to do so. First, check with your municipality’s recycling program to see if they accept any electronic waste products. Next, consider shipping your laptop back to its manufacturer. This can be time-consuming and expensive, but it will ensure that your laptop is disposed of properly. And finally, as a last resort if neither of these options work out for you, find a reputable e-waste company online who will responsibly recycle your product at no charge.
How you can contribute to the cause?
There’s no denying that laptops have made our lives a lot easier over recent years. Businesses, students and everyone in between use them every day to get work done, finish assignments and keep in touch with friends and family. But are they really bad for the environment? The good news is that you can play your part in helping reduce their environmental impact. Whether you use a laptop everyday or own one yourself, here are some simple ways to help preserve our planet’s resources
