Plastic straws and shopping bags are in fierce competition with electronic waste for the most destructive waste category created by humanity, though it's unclear who is winning. On the side of plastics, the damage is evident, with wildlife (both terrestrial and marine) at the short end of the stick. In contrast, electronic waste, while equally harmful, receives less recognition which minimizes its threat.

Plastics and electronics are often slapped together as waste that should be recycled or disposed of properly. However, most consumers treat electronic waste with less urgency than plastic waste. And it’s not by accident.

Studies inform that e-waste is growing three times faster than plastics; it's only a matter of time before the competition comes to a tie. 

Although these two waste types are often classified as one type of waste, they impact the environment in unique yet profoundly damaging ways, both directly and indirectly. Understanding and recognizing these differences is crucial for making informed and effective actions to mitigate our e-waste problem.

Key Differences Between Electronic and Plastic Waste 

Electric waste and plastic waste are separated before recycling because they have entirely different recycling procedures and even more diverse end-products. Yes; they may both consist of plastics, but e-waste contains even more properties such as metals like copper, gold, and silver. 

Here’s a better comparison of the competitors (e-waste & plastic waste) to help you understand their differences. 

The Staggering Evolution of E-Waste—How Did We Get Here?

The growth of e-waste closely followed the rise of technology. Specifically, at the time manufacturers realized that making electronics with shorter lifespans increased profits.

Following the overproduction of electronics, recycling became costlier than producing new devices. Instead of investing in proper recycling and processing methods, companies began shipping their waste to poorer countries, knowing most of these nations lack the capacity for safe recycling or disposal. In addition, cleverly packaging unsalvageable waste with actual recyclable electronics helped to cut their disposal costs. These overwhelming amounts of electronic garbage often end up in landfills, where they’re poorly processed, eventually polluting the environment.

While plastic waste is rightfully criticized for its environmental impact, e-waste enjoys a troubling double standard. According to Global E-Waste Monitor, companies promote recycling programs, but 80% of discarded electronics still end up in landfills or informal scrapyards. 

This issue often arises from money-grabby economics, where new products are designed less durable to manipulate product demand. The truth is that e-waste recycling is challenging not because of technological limitations, but because profit margins favor the status quo. 

The Impact of Irresponsible E-Waste Management

All improperly disposed waste can lead to significant problems for our planet and its dwellers. While e-waste and plastic waste differ in composition, their impacts on the environment are equally severe.

Rapidly Depleting Resources 

Researchers have studied the mining process, revealing significant insights. According to peer-reviewed studies, we lose about 25 kg of gold, 250 kg of silver, and 9,000 kg of copper for every 1 million discarded cell phones. This highlights the financial loss associated with improper electronic waste disposal. Despite this, more mines and their environments are being destroyed to extract resources needed to meet consumer demand.

Increasing Global Warming

E-waste disposal requires skilled and efficient processes, which are often lacking. Inappropriately managed e-waste, such as in landfills, is burned and treated with acids to extract valuable materials, releasing toxic fumes that trap heat and contribute to rising temperatures. Developing nations importing large volumes of e-waste have recorded alarming heat increases, with Delhi facing severe heat waves.

Soil and Water Contamination

A study in Environmental Pollution found lead (plumbum) and greater than permissible limits near e-waste dumping sites in China. Another reported heavy metal soil contamination from irrigating with pond water near an abandoned e-waste site. Unlike plastic, heavy metals from electronics bioaccumulate for long periods, later entering human diets through crops and livestock.

Health Disturbances

Pregnant women and children, amongst other residents,  are the most vulnerable to health defects like anemia and neurological disorders caused by residing too close to e-waste processing sites. Research reveals high levels of lead, mercury, and harmful flame retardants in the soil, water, and living organisms in these areas, which eventually travel to food and drinking water sources. This is no longer just an environmental concern; it is an emergency. 

It Starts With Us—Simple Ways to Help Reduce E-Waste Production

The current state of e-waste disposal is alarming, but change starts with individual choices—you and me. Here’s what we can do:

• Donate Damaged or Old Equipment

Many electrical appliances have short lifespans that cause them to deteriorate even when not in use. Holding onto damaged devices for too long can make recycling difficult or impossible, turning them into e-waste. Ultimately, your unsalvageable device gets shipped amongst billions of others to middle and low-class countries. 

• Limit Overconsumption

Reducing overconsumption of electrical products—like cables, plugs, dryers, and phones—is crucial. These items contribute to the ever-growing mountains of e-waste. And by consciously choosing to purchase only what you need, you can help prevent overproduction and poor recycling practices.

• Purchase Durable and Long-lasting Equipment

Many smartphones are designed in ways that make recycling challenging. With built-in batteries and non-modular components, a damaged phone often requires a complete replacement. Additionally, some devices, like certain power banks, are now designed for single use, similar to plastic products. 

While companies that manufacture these items face criticism, effective solutions have yet to emerge. Well, aside from Switzerland which has enacted laws requiring manufacturers to be responsible for their products' recycling. In response to potential fines, many companies have taken action, significantly improving the e-waste situation.