These days, it’s all about the latest technology money can buy. People are quick to buy the newest trend in the market, but unfortunately, new technology has a tendency to be so much flimsier compared to old technology.
Image from www.recyclingforcash.co.uk
It is curious to think how grandma’s big old TV or landline telephone has lasted all those years, when computers, TV sets, mobile phones, and other newer electronic items today tend to give out much sooner. And what’s worse is all the e-waste created out of these electronics when they get replaced so regularly.
Researchers and experts in the field are now referring to this new age of seemingly-flimsy technology as “planned obsolescense.” In Annie Leonard’s The Story of Stuff, it is explained that planned obsolescense is the deliberate design that’s meant to give electronics a short life, thereby forcing people to buy a replacement sooner than is actually necessary.
This produces more e-waste, which isn’t just a hazard on the consumer’s budget, but to the environment and human health as well. When people constantly throw away and replace electronics, lead, mercury, cadmium, and other carcinogenic substances get dumped on landfills, increasing e-waste as a result.
If you want to do your part and start decreasing the amount of e-waste you put out, here’s what you can do:
- Put an end to early adopting
Ask yourself if you really need to buy the newest iPad or if you are just getting caught in the hype. After all, if you still have a fully functional older model working for you, there really is no need to retire it prematurely. The best solution is to use what you currently have until it is no longer useful. Refrain from making impulsive buying choices, and always choose something you believe you will be able to use and enjoy for a long time.
- Sell
Instead of throwing it away, put your old electronics to better use by selling them. You might be surprised at the number of people who would be willing to buy old gadgets, devices, and appliances as long as they are in good working condition. Not only will you make money off your old stuff, you will also help reduce e-waste by extending the life of your electronics and keeping them out of landfills.
- Recycle
Be selective when it comes to recycling centres because not all of them are legitimate. Make sure you are properly disposing your old electronics and leaving them in the hands of people who are true recyclers. Check with your local government if you can find a list of accredited eWaste recyclers.