We are living in a world where the average consumer electronic device lasts 1.5 years, and we are now beginning to push the envelope regarding how we manage the retirement of electronics and electronics disposal. Product lifecycles are increasing and costs for these items are reducing making them essentially disposable. The trouble is that electronics disposable for many means just meant throwing it out. Consumers and organizations alike need to be more sensitive to the issues surrounding electronic waste.
The key elements are to realize there are options available for electronics disposal but many are not convenient or free. So where do we draw the line? Whose responsibility is it, manufacturer, company, or consumer? Regulations are popping up everywhere regarding personal information however many organizations still do not take the warnings seriously that just because a computer is old, doesn't mean it does not have sensitive information on it.
The time has now come for the process electronics disposable to be considered as a dangerous and hazardous waste, not only just parts or certain components such as monitors, but all electronics. There needs to be a comprehensive educational process started the same as in conserving energy that if we do not begin to take heed of the potential risks to our water supplies, land fills, or soil, that we will contaminate ourselves and future generations.
The Apple IPhone is a marvel for the electronics world to comprehend; competitors are now ramping up their own versions to compete. It will be a market share rush for the cell phone to eventually replace all other types of computer equipment. Microsoft's Vista Operating System will eventually become the dominant OS for the next generations of computer equipment. Currently 80% of all computers currently in use cannot work with the OS. Within 2 years, Microsoft will without a doubt push customers into this new OS which has been several years in the making. This will begin a refresh cycle for hardware that will be unprecedented not seen since the dot com era - becoming a bigger challenge concerning electronics disposal.
Organizations need to be a lot more sensitive to the types of companies that are willing to take their electronic disposal for no cost. There is a well known old saying that says, "You get what you pay for." Remember the liability for an electronic waste item is growing by the day and without proper documentation, transfer of ownership and indemnification, the owning organization of that piece of equipment is still responsible for the electronic waste. Some manufacturers are now offering a free take back program, and this should be applauded however their real incentive is for you to purchase a new system from them.
This is a great opportunity for everyone to take responsibility and make a contribution to this effort of proper electronics disposal. Remember that we can all make a difference if we change our habits and thought process. Even if what you can do seems small, it can still make a big difference in the end.
