How many televisions have you bought so far? It could be one, especially if you recently got your first home, with prospects of an upgrade in the near future. Others might be on their second, third or so television.
With the advancement in technology, we always want an upgrade. Besides, who wants to stick with an old television model while there are better options out there? I bet none! However, have you ever thought about the importance of proper TV disposal? The majority of people do not pay attention to this crucial issue when they are making a purchase – yet they should!
TV disposal isn’t something we can ignore. We must create as much awareness as possible to make sure that people do the right thing as far as e-waste handling is concerned.
So, why is TV disposal important? This article brings your attention to the negative consequences of improper disposal of television sets.
Pollution of the Environment
Environmental pollution happens in the following ways:
- Televisions contain hazardous materials and as such, contaminate the soil in the dumping site or nearby. While the toxic substances do not mix with the soil immediately, they gradually interfere with the growth of the plants in that land.
- Each time you burn an old or dead television, know that you are causing air pollution. The toxins from the TV spread into the air. The greenhouse gases emitted from the deed also get released to the atmosphere. Maybe most of us need to be continually reminded about global warming and its dire consequences.
- Unfortunately, improper disposal of TVs may also pollute water. This happens when an underground water flow carries water pollutants from the TVs, and into the water supplies such as deep wells and natural springs. It is not hard to imagine what this does to the flora and fauna that rely on that water.
Poses Serious Health Risks
Televisions contain toxic components, namely cadmium, mercury, lead, zinc, beryllium and while nickel. These chemicals are found in the circuit boards, and they are the number one reason why TV disposal is an important issue.
With the landfills receiving more and more electronic waste, exposure to environmental toxins increases. Unfortunately, this results in elevated risks of illnesses such as cancer, developmental, as well as neurological disorders. It is perhaps one of the explanations of why cancer cases and neurological problems are on the rise across the globe. Respiratory problems such as asthma are also increasing at an alarming rate.
We all need to do something. We all have a responsibility of making the world a better place than we found it.
What is the way forward?
Many people are afraid of recycling electronic waste such as televisions because it translates to an expense. Seeing the consequences of improper disposal of TVs, throwing them in the trash is not an option. Consumers must make a conscious decision to follow the recycling route. Doing so will not only ensure environmental sustainability, but most importantly, help reduce the above-mentioned health risks
The very first step entails contacting a firm that deals with the recycling of electronic waste. Some of these companies have pick-up points for households and businesses. They will make you understand the entire process so that you can know what to expect. Whatever you do, ensure proper disposal of that TV set you wish to get rid of.
Resources
https://homeguides.sfgate.com/effects-not-recycling-computers-79800.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3908467/
