The Dark Reality of E-Waste Recycling
The world produces more than 50 million tonnes of e-waste annually, yet much of it ends up in unregulated recycling sites in developing countries. Workers at these sites—such as one in Ghana recently highlighted by the BBC – are routinely exposed to toxic chemicals like lead and mercury, risking their health and the environment.
This isn’t an isolated issue. Similar unsafe practices occur across China, India, and Pakistan, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). These countries, along with others, bear the brunt of a global failure to manage e-waste responsibly and legally.
The Role of the EU in Illegal E-Waste Exports
Shockingly, the EU has played a significant role in this crisis. More than five years ago, a Guardian report revealed that more than 350,000 metric tonnes of e-waste were illegally shipped annually to developing countries, with the UK being the worst offender.
Despite strict regulations, enforcement remains lax, allowing unscrupulous actors to sidestep laws and dump hazardous materials abroad.
Why Unregulated E-Waste Recycling is a Global Crisis
Unregulated e-waste recycling has severe consequences for human health and the environment.
Exposure to toxic substances like cadmium and flame retardants can cause respiratory diseases, cancer and neurological damage.
Hazardous chemicals from e-waste seep into soil and water, affecting ecosystems and local food supplies.
A Solution for Responsible E-Waste Disposal
Businesses have the power to tackle this crisis by choosing responsible disposal methods for their end-of-life electronic devices. Avena Group’s SECURETECH IT and media destruction service offers a practical, ethical solution.
Why Choose Avena’s SECURETECH Service?
1. Secure Disposal
As an industry-recognised secure recycling company, Avena ensures compliance with data protection regulations.
SECURETECH removes and securely destroys all data storage components, eliminating the risk of sensitive information falling into the wrong hands.
2. Ethical Recycling
By partnering with certified recyclers, Avena guarantees that your e-waste is processed in a way that protects both human health and the environment.
All electronic waste is processed in safe facilities within the UK and to standards that comply with our ISO 14001:2015 environmental management certification.
Join the Fight Against E-Waste Mismanagement
Businesses have a crucial role to play in combating the e-waste crisis. By using Avena’s SECURETECH service, you can protect your organisation from data breaches, support ethical recycling practices and reduce the global impact of unregulated e-waste.
Together, we can build a future where electronic waste no longer threatens our planet or its people.
Interesting in learning more about our services? Speak to one of our experts today.
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