Once the bulky boring bits that make up most of the electronic waste stream have been removed, recyclers are left to deal with an incredibly complex mix of metals and other components.
Some of that complexity is found in the lithium batteries that power most of our mobile devices. Battery recycling involves a mix of shredding, physical metal separation and wet chemistry to recover carbon, cobalt and lithium. Then it’s on to the real challenge: the printed circuit boards (PCBs).
With the introduction of the Minamata convention there is a need to understand the global changes in supply and demand for mercury. Current estimates suggest
Without a doubt the impact of e-waste continues to grow with its significant impact on the environment. Indeed, only 12% of the nation’s computers are recycled. At this time, Australia is the fourth highest generator of e-waste per capita in the world. Poorly managed e-waste means heavy metals and hazardous waste such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and brominated flame retardants leak into the environment. Clearly, the risks of data leaks are also increased if the device’s storage aren’t carefully treated.
Managing mercury risk is an important issue for many Australian industrial companies. Mercury causes very harmful and lasting health impacts due to its toxicity. The
Importantly, the Minamata convention became a reality in Australia last year for mercury waste. This convention was the result of the historical problems caused by
US Federal data on recycling safety, shows the injury rate in the waste and recycling industry fell in 2021, reaching its lowest point since 2006.
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