Facts About Computers
Growing immensely over the past 20 years, the use of computers is a part of almost every aspect of life. From the ATM to the desktop, computers aid us in completing tasks faster, often with more efficiency and better accuracy. Before we approach the subject of recycling these electronics, we need to understand the big numbers:
- In 2007, the U.S. EPA estimated that 65.7 million desktop computers, 42.4 million computer monitors and 2.1 million laptop computers were in storage, not being used.
- From 2006 to 2007, recycling rates for electronics increased to 18 percent.
- The electronics industry generates almost $2 billion annually in sales.
- Americans own a total of almost 3 billion electronic products.
- In 2005, the U.S. EPA estimates that between 26 and 37 million computers became obsolete.
- According to the U.S. EPA, more than 800 communities created electronics collection events to help manage e-waste. Many computer manufacturers and retailers offer some kind of take-back program or recycling event.
Bibliography: Facts About Computers
- "Fact Sheet: Manafement of Electronic Waste in the Unites States" U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2008 http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/materials/ecycling/docs/fact7-08.pdf.
- (11/30/-0001). "Statistics on the Management of Used and End-of-Life Electronics" U.S. Environmental Protection Agency http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/materials/ecycling/manage.htm.
