Script

The majority of Americans use technology to accomplish almost every task they have. Electronic technology that is frequently used by Americans consists of computers, televisions, and cellular devices. Research finds that by the year 2015 the amount of personal computers will near double to around two billion from the year 2008 where the number of personal computers in the world is around one billion. Technology is advancing and growing more and more every day, and with every advance outdated technology still remains. Outdated technology has virtually no use and proceeds to fill up landfills where dangerous chemicals can seep into the ground water and harm the rest of the environment. The threat is not immediate, yet can be very harmful to coming generations. Another main problem is that e-waste is not regulated as strictly as other hazardous materials, and often gets dumped in landfills or illegal fields. Recycling of e-waste is very important, not only because of the environmental effects, but also because of the materials used in electronics becoming rarer. Several metals such as platinum, gallium, indium, and palladium are used in electronics. Recycling old devices can then replenish the stock of these metals for the manufacturers to use. With proper recycling of old and outdated electronic technology the world can become a much cleaner and safer place for future generations.