You know when you are buying an Apple iPhone, you don’t get a charger because they claim to be sustainable? Well, that’s because they want to help reduce e-waste. Most Malaysians change their electronic products from time to time and this means more ‘older’ electronics going to waste. Hence, cutting off certain electronic items may help in reducing e-waste.
What Is E-Waste?
Image via EY
E-waste is a generic term used to describe old or discarded electronic items. For example, your old phone, laptop, or even some cables that you don’t even use anymore may be buried deep inside your drawers. Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) is one of the fastest-growing waste items in Malaysia and worldwide.
How To Help Reduce E-Waste In Malaysia?
There are several ways you can help reduce e-waste in Malaysia and wave the path towards a sustainable environment. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Donate/Sell Your Electronics
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Instead of letting your electronics collect dust, donate it to charity. Many unfortunate people can’t afford to buy gadgets. You can also resell it to any second-hand electronics company or your friends for a cheaper price. Don’t forget to check if there’s anything faulty before letting go of your electronics.
2. Repair Your Electronics
Image via Global Electronic Services
You don’t need to run to buy a new electronic item when there’s a problem with your current one. If it is fixable, bring it to a service center and repair it. You won’t have to splurge your cash on a new electronic item but only a small amount for the service fee.
3. Recycle Electronics
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You can recycle your electronics rather than contribute to the landfill. Make recycling a part of your life. You can pass them to your certified electronics recycling centers. This ensures the hazardous components in them don’t poison the ecosystem.
4. Buy Energy-Efficient Electronics
Image via Kiwi Energy
You are buying an electronic that is eco-friendly. Eco-friendly electronics use less energy. Less energy means fewer resources will go to waste. This limits energy emissions into the atmosphere as well. Besides, if it goes faulty despite trying to fix it, there would be less waste due to fewer hazardous components. Be more eco-friendly for a sustainable future in Malaysia.
It takes efforts within you to reduce e-waste. Although it may be nice to own the latest electronic items, think about how much of a favor you will be doing to Mother Earth. Mother Earth has been so kind to us for billions of years, and it is our responsibility to be kind to her by showing compassion. Let’s work together to reduce e-waste in Malaysia to show thankfulness to Mother Earth!
