Correct Answer - Option 2 : 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 only
The correct answer is 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6 only.
- The disposed off electrical or electronic devices are termed as electronic waste or e-waste.
- The discarded computers, CPUs, etc. contain harmful materials such as lead, cadmium, beryllium, etc.
- Following are some examples of the e-waste components:
- Cathode ray tubes
- Printed circuit boards
- Chips and other gold plated components
- Plastics from printers, keyboards, monitors, etc.
- Computer wires
The table mentioned below shall provide some of the prominent elements found in the e-wastes and their harmful effects:
Elements |
Harmful effects |
1. Lead
|
affects the nervous system that leads to behavioural changes, lower IQ, also has a negative impact on kidneys |
2. Mercury
|
exposure to mercury causes dermatitis, sensory impairment, memory loss, muscle weakness, reduced fertility, etc. |
3. Cadmium
|
it is the cause of severe lung and kidney damages, and in children, it may cause learning and neuromotor defects |
4. Chromium |
it has carcinogenic properties and may also result in damaging of DNA. |
5. Beryllium |
it can cause beryllium sensitization, chronic beryllium disease, acute beryllium disease, and lung cancer. |
6. PVC (Polyvinyl chloride)
|
the bioaccumulation of chlorine over a period of time results in air, water, and soil pollution; and can lead to reproductive and developmental health effects. |
7. PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid)
|
it has severe impact on the pregnant women as it may lead to spontaneous abortions, stillbirth, low birth weight, etc. |
8. Sulphur
|
it can damage the heart, kidneys, and liver. |
9. BFRs (Brominated Flame Retardants) |
it may lead to thyroid problems, liver problems, improper development of nervous system, etc. |
-
Recycling of e-waste is very important as the elements are highly toxic and can cause serious health implications. Thus, recycling is an important step of e-waste management. Informal processing has adverse effect on environment and human health, hence awareness must be spread by the local authorities among the consumers.