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October 26, 2005
Developing nations dumping ground for worthless computers
A report by Basel Action Network, a Seattle based environmental organiztion, claims that much of the used computer equipment sent from the United States to developing nations for use in homes, schools, universities and businesses is often unusable or unrepairable, creating enormous environmental problems.
According to the report US corporations are avoidable recycling costs and making people believe that their used equipment is being placed for noble causes.
In various locations of Africa dumping of computer equipment caused uncontrolled release of components, including cancer-causing chemicals and substances that disrupt human hormonal and immune systems. A typical computer and monitor contain several pounds of lead, plus toxics like arsenic, mercury, copper and cadmium according to the report.
Posted by admin at October 26, 2005 06:26 AM