Electronic waste or e-waste loosely describes discarded, surplus, obsolete or broken electronic devices.

Electronic waste (e-waste) contains a number of types of hazardous chemicals that can create great health risks. In Muskoka we are encouraging residents to reduce the amount of e-waste produced and maximize the reuse and recycling of these items.

Preventing Electronic Waste When Possible

We encourage residents to reuse their items to full potential. If you are certain you no longer need or want your electronic equipment but it is still operating, let someone else reuse it. Donate your used electronics to schools, non-profit organizations or to lower income families who would otherwise not have the opportunity to benefit from this equipment. By donating your electronics you are providing opportunity for other individuals, extending the life of the electronic, as well as keeping the item out of the landfill.

If donating your used electronic is not a viable option, be sure you choose proper disposal for your item. By choosing proper disposal you can save landfill space, reduce potential hazards in the landfill, local soil and ground water and reduce manufacturing energy costs.

When Shopping For A New Electronic

Next time you are shopping for your new television, computer or cellular phone, ask your retail representative about the more environmentally friendly models or look for these quick attributes.

A products that contains fewer toxic constituents
Made with recycled materials
Energy efficient (e.g., showing the Energy Star logo)
Items that are designed for easy upgrading or disassembly
Products or companies that use minimal packaging
Benefits such as leasing or takeback options
Meet performance criteria showing the product is environmentally

Ask your local retail store about exchange programs or drop off bins on site.

Hazards of Electronic Waste

Old TV units with cathode ray tubes (CRT) contain lead
Cellular Phones have an average shelf life of 1 ½ years. Cellular phones contain lead
Cellular phone batteries were originally made with nickle and cadmium. Cadmium is linked to lung and liver damage
Cellular phone batteries may contain potenitally explosive lithium or lead
Computer monitor lamps contain mercury that if inhailed or digested is toxic
Computer circuit boards contain lead and cadmium
Small amounts of lead or mercury from various types of electronic waste can contaminate soil or water supplies
Older photocopiers contain selenuim which if exposed to high consentrations can result in hair loss, brittle nails or neurological abnormalities such as odd sensations or numbness
Data tapes and floppy disks contain Chromium VI which is easliy absorbed into the skin and can cause irritation to your eyes or skin. Chronic exposure to Chromium VI can result in pernament eye injuries or DNA damages

Please take the necessary percautions when handling and disposing of your electronic waste. Take advantage of Muskoka’s E-Waste program.

News

Preventing Electronic Waste When Possible

When Shopping For A New Electronic

Hazards of Electronic Waste