Writing Assignment 4/ E-Waste

Reading about all of the e-pollution that is going on in the world was really fascinating. I've always wondered what happens to all of the electronics that people throw out. In fact, I don't even know what to do with all of my old cell phones and junk- I still have them.

I think environmental groups, politicians and companies should get together to form a solution to this problem because shipping off our junk to third world nations obviously isn't the correct solution. As far as e-waste that gets sent to this places when the intended action was recycling, I really don't know what to say. Perhaps we can start by fining the companies/ shipping carriers that are responsible for this. We should also implement strong laws to prohibit this from reoccuring. More people need to be educated on this issue because I'm sure that millions of people are unaware of this huge problem.

I think it would also be effective for companies to inform their customers about how to properly dispose of their electronics. For example, when you purchase a new cell phone, the company could even offer a discount in exchange for their old phone and then they can make sure that it's disposed of correctly. People need to be held accountable for these actions.

I'm aware that we live in a throw away society and there are always new developments in the electronic world but I am cautious about purchasing products not only for financial reasons, but because I don't think I could ever keep up. The minute you buy something, there is a newer and better model. If I had the money then maybe I would buy more electronics but for now I'm happy with my really old lap top that works super slow.