Societal Shifts to Electronic Device Purchases
Developed countries and their citizens are the ones in control of E-Waste amounts. The supply and demand relationship between consumers and mobile phone companies has created a cycle where these countries now make a new version of a phone about every two years.
The Issue of Technological Growth
Technological growth implies a shift in the type and amounts of materials used in newer electronic devices. As seen in the mobile phone sector, in 2006, the iPhone brought with it the shift from the small screens used in previous mobile phones, to larger touch screen devices.
The Struggle of Developing Countries
Developing Countries are at the receiving end of E-Waste disposal for developed countries. These developing countries can’t follow the proper recycling, safety, and disposal procedures due to their lack of knowledge, equipment and financial support.
The Danger of Obsolete Technology
The technology that is no longer found in the everyday household of a developed country are still being recycled to this day. If not recycled, they are accumulating in peoples homes, where these devices will rot, or be thrown away in bulk, once again releasing large amounts of toxic materials found in these older devices.
