1) Why do obsolete computers pose environmental problems?
- First, these electronics contain significant quantities of hazardous
materials, including lead, cadmium, and arsenic, brominated flame
retardants, to name a few. If old computers are dumped in
landfills, these materials will leach out and poison air, water, land,
animals and humans.
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Old computers also pose a huge solid waste problem, and the sheer
number of old computers that need to be retired and see proper disposal
would fill every landfill in the nation.
2) What are the health risks in these hazardous materials in old electronics?
- The toxic materials in computers can cause death, birth defects,
blindness, organ failure, and would be an incredible health expense to
the nation if air, water, land, animals and humans are poisoned.
3) How will EPA know that we’re violating laws
- In many cases, employees and former employees with a conscience and
good common sense report significant environmental violations.
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To report violations to the EPA, contact www.epa.org or gov.
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In addition, old computers that are dumped into landfills in
significant quantities will attract attention. Serial numbers on
those old systems will be used to trace the company that did the
dumping. Of note, the EPA can fine companies by the day, and the
fines are retroactive.
4) What specifically are the laws governing disposal of old electronics/hazardous waste?
- First and foremost, you should consult with your corporate attorney
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Companies interested in researching this more should consult the Code of Federal Regulations section 40 for more information.
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Also, many state that have tougher laws than the EPA provides. Please consult your state EPA office for more information.
5) How big is this problem?
- There are billions of old computer units that need to see properly disposal.
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These units not only contain toxic materials; they contain toxic
information including personnel information, medical information,
company security protocols, and more – all of which needs to be
protected.
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This problem is as large as the total number of PCs, printers, routers,
bridge, servers, mainframes and scanners that have been built and
shipped since 1980.
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