An enlightening session on e-waste was conducted in the AVH for students of classes VII, VIII and IX in the 7th, 8th and 9th periods respectively on On August 12, 2024, by Ms. Pooja and Ms. Smriti from the NGO Chintan. The session aimed to raise awareness about e-waste and its environmental impact. The discussion covered a broad range of topics, including what e-waste is, the consequences of improper disposal of electronic items, and the implications of rising consumerism on electronic waste.
Key Topics Covered were
- Understanding E-Waste
E-waste, or electronic waste, refers to discarded electrical and electronic devices. These items include old computers, mobile phones, televisions, and other gadgets that are no longer in use or have reached the end of their useful life. - Disposal and Its Consequences
The facilitators addressed critical issues related to the disposal of electronic devices. They highlighted that when an electronic device stops working, it should not be hastily considered as waste. Instead, proper recycling or disposal methods should be followed to minimize environmental impact.- Old Cables and Components: A specific point of discussion was whether old cables should be discarded with regular waste like paper. It was emphasized that electronic components, including cables, contain toxic substances and should not be mixed with regular waste. Instead, they should be sorted and sent to specialized e-waste recycling facilities.
- Toxic Substances in Electronics
The insights into the hazardous substances present in everyday electronics. These include:- Precious Metals: Platinum, silver, copper, and gold, which, if not properly handled, can contribute to environmental pollution.
- Heavy Metals: Lead, nickel, and bromine, which pose severe health risks and environmental hazards when disposed of improperly.
- Obsolescence and Technological Progress
The session also touched on the concept of technological obsolescence. With rapid advancements in technology, electronic devices can become obsolete quickly. It was discussed how rising consumerism contributes to a shorter lifespan of electronic items, leading to increased e-waste. - Consumerism and E-Waste
The facilitators highlighted the connection between rising consumerism and the generation of e-waste. As technology advances, consumers often upgrade their devices more frequently, discarding still-functional electronics. This behavior accelerates the e-waste problem and emphasizes the need for responsible consumption and recycling practices.
Conclusion
The session concluded with a call to action, urging participants to be more mindful of their electronic waste and to follow proper disposal and recycling practices. Ms. Pooja and Ms. Smriti encouraged attendees to support and participate in e-waste recycling programs and to adopt sustainable practices to reduce the impact of e-waste on the environment.
Under the guidance of our Principal,Ms Padma Srinivasan,able initiative of Ms. Niva Chhonkar and the collaborative efforts of the Biology Department, the session was a valuable educational experience, promoting awareness and proactive measures regarding e-waste management.
