Electronics Are 'the Fastest-Growing Waste Stream in the World' (vice.com)

Electronic waste is a growing threat to the environment. Thanks to the low cost of manufacturing, it's easier than ever for corporations to pump out millions of laptops, smart phones, internet of things devices, and other electronics. From a report: A new initiative combining the efforts of the United Nations and the World Economic Forum and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development wants to change that. The group formed the Platform for Accelerating the Circular Economy (PACE), and announced itself at Davos -- a yearly gathering of the world's wealthy elite -- where it released its first report. "E-waste is now the fastest-growing waste stream in the world," PACE's report said. "It is estimated this waste stream reached 48.5 million tonnes in 2018." Most of that waste comes from Europe and the United States and ends up in places like Nigeria and Hong Kong, which suffer the human and economic costs of disposing of the material. "The material value [of e-waste] alone is worth $62.5 billion, three times more than the annual output of the world's silver mines and more than the GDP of most countries," PACE's report [PDF] said.

Comments

Re:Time to ban them like plastic straws

[pgmrdlm]

another political bigot. I guess you think all Republicans don't give a shit. Well bigot, I think paper straws would be great. What I grew up with. While we are at it bigot. How about we bring back a service like the milk man, where used bottles(glass) was picked up and reused. this could be used for milk, soda, and any other heavily used bottles. But then, you are a political bigot. And think only your party of choice can offer solutions.