Over recent decades there has been a significant increase in the average number of electronic items such as televisions, mobile phones, computers, video recorders, microwaves and photocopiers (to name just a few) in our homes, schools and businesses. The rapid developments in consumer and business electronics means that there has been a commensurately rapid increase in the number of electronic items becoming obsolete and entering the waste stream. These items are collectively known as e-waste.
Electronic equipment can contain toxic metals such as lead, mercury and cadmium and even the plastics used in consumer electronic items contain toxic flame retardants. Given the high toxicity of these components, e-waste cannot be disposed of in landfills nor can it be burned or recycled in uncontrolled environments ? such activities can result in significant damage to human health and the environment.
Our society now faces a pressing need to find ways to safely and economically manage e-waste-streams, and ideally salvage and recycle the precious metals it contains. The solution to the e-waste problem requires significant investment by governments, industry and individuals in research, technology and education.