Gaerlan, Jerard Matthew B.

3Bio2

Electronic waste is a term used to describe all types of used electrical and electronic
equipment that are discarded and thrown away. These include appliances such as
television, computers, air conditioners, and refrigerators. One problem with electronic
wastes is how to dispose them efficiently and properly. Before I watched the video, I was
not fully aware that electronic wastes were imported to developing countries like Ghana by
the top developed countries of the world. I know however that these wastes are a global
problem that we need to find solutions for in the near future.
Here in the Philippines, electronic wastes are also present. There are two sources of
electronic wastes of our country. Those produced locally and those that are imported from
other countries. Shipments of unused surplus electronic devices that are brought to
Philippines are not thoroughly checked. Some have defects and contain toxic substances.
There are even tables of e-waste importation clearances from DENR-EMB that proves that
electronics are imported here.
E-waste are being recycled informally by locals. Scavengers take components. Junk
shop operators obtain metals and scraps. Some are recycled with other solid wastes. The
wastes are then broken and crushed to minimize volume. Some are burned which
unleashes toxic chemicals to air causing pollution. In other words, e-waste is recycled not
very efficiently. Our country is yet to be able to handle this waste. Our country doesnt
have a specific law handling e-waste production. They are however under the Solid Waste
Management Act of 2000(RA 9003) which is a general law that aims to reduce and
properly manage solid waste in our country.
I can contribute to the management of e-waste by raising awareness of my friends
and family through discussion on the bad effects of these products. I can be more strict in
looking for more energy-efficient electronic devices to buy by looking for logos complying
to environmental standards. I will go for quality not quantity. I can also help in the
community by participating in clean-up programs conducted by local groups.

A child in Smokey Moutain

looking for scraps in e-waste.

Informal recycling of
domestic e-waste near
Manila