There is a lack of awareness among consumers about the importance of disposing of electronic devices correctly. Four out of ten Italians – according to a research carried out by Ipsos for Erion Weee – they don't know the meaning of the acronym WEEE waste of AEE (Electrical and Electronic Equipment) in English WEEE. Furthermore, they are unaware of the existence of the "one for zero" collection service, leading to the consequence that small appliances remain in the drawers of our homes.
THE MEANING OF THE TERM WEEE
WEEE is also the brand (crossed-out wheeled bin symbol) which must appear on all electrical and electronic equipment. Correct disposal not only reduces the environmental damage but it allows us to recover precious raw materials. For example, from the electronic circuit boards of our cell phones we can extract gold, silver, copper and rare earths. Global warming is a serious problem. According to the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, a United Nations body) the electricity production is responsible for a quarter of emissions, while another quarter comes from agriculture, livestock and deforestation.
WHAT ARE WEEE EQUIPMENT?
The electrical and electronic equipment that is indicated with WEEE are: large household appliances (refrigerators, freezers, etc.), large white goods (ovens, washing machines, etc.), TVs and monitors, consumer electronics (cell phones and computers), and light sources. The disposal process takes place in a collection center where the appliances are dismantled and the materials separated. The components are then sent to specialized plants for recycling. The raw materials obtained are sold to be used for the production of new products. The remaining non-recyclable waste is subjected to a treatment process to minimize the environmental impact.
WHAT IS THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY?
EEE waste is part of the circular economy: a production and consumption model that involves sharing, lending, reusing, repairing, reconditioning and recycling existing materials and products for as long as possible. This extends the life cycle of products and reduces waste. Another benefit is the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
«According to the Global E-Waste Monitor WEEE is the fastest growing type of waste in the world: in 2030, over 74 million tons will be generated, an increase three times faster than the growth of the world population". (from the magazine CircularEconomy.com)
CONCLUSIONS
We need to think every time the life cycle of an electronic product ends for the protection of future generations and the environment that we promote so much on social networks during our beautiful travels.