Lead- Affects the kidneys, nervous system, and reproductive system. It also leads to cognitive and developmental problems in the brains of children. It also lowers intelligence and causes permanent damage to adult brains as well. [2]
Cadmium- Is a human carcinogen (it causes cancer). It can also lead to cardiovascular, neurological, and reproductive damage. [3]
Mercury- Mercury is one of the most dangerous and lethal chemicals around, and it mostly affects "the nervous, digestive system, the lungs, kidneys, skin and eyes.” [4].
Check out this short video to see the impact of E-waste on third-world countries (specifically India)- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkndVAwBf_k
E-waste can have a negative effect on not only the environment, but on humans as well. With these toxic chemicals being released from these products, humans are the ones that are suffering from it. This needs to change, and better recycling methods must be utilized instead of dumping all of this waste into other countries. The chemicals above are just a few examples of the many chemicals within E-waste, and the affect of these chemicals on the health of humans is being severely underestimated.
Written by: Shaun Kular
[1] http://www.wisegeek.com/why-is-e-waste-dangerous.htm
[2] http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/toxic-metal-health-dangers-lead/
[3] http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/substances/toxsubstance.asp?toxid=15
[4] http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs361/en/
[2] http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/toxic-metal-health-dangers-lead/
[3] http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/substances/toxsubstance.asp?toxid=15
[4] http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs361/en/
No comments:
Post a Comment