Do you want the latest and greatest technology? Before you decide, consider that over-consumption has led to 20-50 million metric tons of toxic e-waste worldwide each year. And the U.S. does not federally mandate recycling of e-waste.
Most old or unusable computers, televisions and cell phones are shipped off to Asia or West Africa where they are smashed and scrapped for precious metals. Young people seeking to earn a little money work at dumps to demolish electronics for valuable parts. But unknowingly they are exposed to poisonous chemicals like mercury, lead and cadmium, all known to cause cancer.
In an effort to prevent international dumping of e-waste 170 countries agreed to notify developing nations of incoming hazardous waste shipments. Sadly, the U.S. is the only industrialized country that would not sign the agreement.
Dumping e-waste is harmful to the poor nations where it ends up and harmful to the environment. The EPA refuses to take responsibility for international dumping of e-waste. Tell Congress that it's time to federally regulate e-waste dumping.
Dear [Decision maker],
Every year 20-50 million metric tons of toxic electronic waste are generated worldwide, and much of this waste is shipped to poor, developing nations. E-waste, consisting of old and unusable computers, televisions and cell phones, contains poisonous chemicals like mercury, lead and cadmium which are all know to cause cancer. But it is wrong to poison the poor with our waste.
Currently, no federal regulations for e-waste are in place, and although some states have e-waste requirements, many still do not.
Sadly, most old and unusable electronics are shipped off to dump sites in Asia and West Africa, where lands are contaminated with poisonous chemicals, threatening both people and the environment.
Many young people who live near dumping sites are forced to scavenge among the hazardous waste to extract bits of metal that they can sell for little money. In doing so, children and teens unknowingly put themselves at risk of cancer or other health risks.
In an effort to prevent international dumping of e-waste 170 countries agreed in 1989 to notify developing nations of incoming hazardous waste shipments. Sadly, the U.S. is the only industrialized country that did not sign the agreement.
[Your comment here]
Please regulate e-waste from the U.S. in order to protect people and the environment from toxic chemicals. It's time to federally regulate e-waste dumping.
