This week Galway Bay FM looked at a free e-waste collection day on the 21st of September with Lorraine Rushe, Environmental Health and Safety Manager at University of Galway.
Did you know…
- E-waste refers to electronic products that are discarded, such as old computers or smartphones.
- It’s estimated that around 50 million tons of e-waste is generated globally each year.
- E-waste contains valuable materials like gold, silver, and copper, which can be recycled.
- Unfortunately, only a small percentage of e-waste is properly recycled, leading to environmental pollution.
- Recycling e-waste helps conserve natural resources and reduces the release of harmful toxins into the environment.
Why is moving to cycling in a sustainable way so important?
- It helps protect the environment by preventing harmful chemicals from polluting the soil and water.
- Proper disposal promotes recycling, allowing valuable resources to be recovered and reused.
- It reduces the risk of health hazards for workers who handle e-waste and for communities living near disposal sites.
- Correct disposal supports sustainable practices and the circular economy by minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency.
- By properly disposing of e-waste, we contribute to a cleaner and healthier future for our planet.
What can I do to help support efforts to cycle sustainably?
- Take your old electronics to certified e-waste recycling centers or drop-off locations.
- If your devices are still functional, consider donating or selling them to extend their lifespan.
- Learn about proper e-waste disposal methods and share that knowledge with others.
- Advocate for policies that promote responsible e-waste management and recycling.
- Make conscious choices when purchasing electronics and opt for repair or upgrade options instead of constantly buying new ones.
Here’s a few websites if you want to know more!
- University of Galway https://www.universityofgalway.ie/buildings/service-helpdesk/recycling/
- WEEE Ireland https://www.weeeireland.ie/
- Geneva Environment Network https://www.genevaenvironmentnetwork.org/resources/updates/the-growing-environmental-risks-of-e-waste/
