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Hazardous Waste Essay

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The Problem Household hazardous waste along with E-waste is not only becoming an enormous problem locally in developed nations but also a major issue on a global scale. “A hazardous waste is a waste that exhibits a hazardous characteristic or is a listed waste. There are four criteria that define a characteristic hazardous waste. They are: 1. Ignitability, 2. Corrosivity, 3. Reactivity, 4. Toxicity.” These materials can be flammable, reactive, or unstable enough to release toxic fumes into the atmosphere. They are capable of corroding metal containers such as tanks, barrels, and drums. Currently, the Environmental Protection Agency has over 500 items designated as hazardous waste. Examples of household hazardous waste …show more content…

The waste is ending up in landfills or is burned for energy across the state. This is most certainly damaging our environment and our future.

E-Waste “E-waste is a growing problem in our country and the rest of the world. Approximately 20 million computers were obsolete in 1998 and less than 15 percent of the computers are recycled. Policies regarding e-waste may differ at the federal and state level, but e-waste policies should create, and hopefully, ensure safety and prevent calamity.” Local E-waste disposal information can be found at: <http:llwww.ci.ceres.ca.us/40651-OldElectronicEquipmentRecycling.pdf> . E-waste can also be disposed of at the Household Hazardous Waste Collection and Electronic Facility located at the previous mentioned telephone number and address on 1716 Morgan Road. This facility accepts cell phones, televisions, computer monitors, laptops, computers, printers, fax machines, and copiers.

Global Implications and Impact The electronic waste we dispose of locally, even when we dispose of it properly has a major global effect in other countries like China, India and Pakistan. Even when E-waste is properly disposed of here in the United States it still ends up in our landfills and incinerators. According to the EOA, in 1997 more than 3.2 million tons of E-waste ended up in U.S. landfills. Recycling methods of electronics include,

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