“Electronic waste” may be defined as discarded computers, office electronic equipment, entertainment device electronics, mobile phones, television sets and refrigerators. This definition includes used electronics which are destined for reuse, resale, salvage, recycling, or disposal.”- Wikipedia
e-Waste Composition
Electronic appliances are composed of hundreds of different materials that can be both toxic but also of high value. While bulk materials such as iron, aluminium, plastics and glass account for over 80 weight %, valuable and toxic materials are found in smaller quantities but are still of high importance. The material composition of different appliances is often similar, but the percentage of different components can vary a lot.
Gold, silver, copper, platinum etc. are valuable substances which turn recycling of e-waste into a lucrative business opportunity. On the other hand, the recycling of hazardous substances, e.g. carcinogens such as lead and arsenic is critical and poses serious health risks and environment dangers of not properly handled.
e-Waste Market
E-waste represents one of the fastest-growing sectors by volume within the global waste industry. According to a new analysis by Frost & Sullivan titled “Global Opportunities in the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Recycling Services Market”, the global WEEE recycling services market was estimated at $1,424.6 million in 2011. This is further expected to grow to $1,869.3 million in 2017 with a strong CAGR of 4 percent.
The global economic slowdown affected the WEEE recycling market in as much as the prices of steel and plastics, for example, went on a steady decline, as did tonnages of e-waste in the market, states an analysis by Frost & Sullivan.
Here’s an insightful infographic to help you understand e-Waste:
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