Have you heard of e-waste (电子垃圾), which can be produced every day? How do you deal with your computers, MP4 players or mobile phones when they're broken or you want a new one?
Most people just throw them away. With the development of electronic industry (电子产业), e-waste pollution has become a serious problem. According to the United Nations, in 2014, people around the world produced 41.8 million tons (吨) of e—waste and only recycled 6.5 million tons. The US was the biggest waster, producing 7.1 million tons. China came second, with 6 million tons.
It's important to pay attention to e-waste. It can be either valuable or harmful, depending on how we deal with it. E-waste is a valuable urban mine (城市矿藏). The value of the metals, like gold and silver in the waste around the world, is surprising. And the metals can be reused. But if people throw them away, the toxic chemicals (有毒化学物质) can get into the earth or air,affectingthe environment and people's health.
Apple, for example, now recycles people's used products in China when they are buying new ones. The company will test and repair the used ones and sell them at lower prices. To help reduce e-waste, we can buy longer-lasting electronic products. If you have unwanted electronics, find a new home for them. You can also take computers and phones to companies to see if they offer recycling programs.
