Vladimer M.

Oligan BSED ENG - 3A

Title: The tragic cost of e-waste and new efforts to recycle

The News article discusses the issue of electronic waste, particularly in Ghana, where e-
waste exported by the West is processed in hazardous conditions, leading to
environmental pollution and health risks for workers, including children. The report
highlights the challenges of improper e-waste disposal, the dangers associated with
urban mining, and the potential health consequences for those living in proximity to
these sites. It also introduces efforts by individuals and companies, such as Fairphone, to
address the problem by promoting sustainable design and recycling practices. The
article emphasizes the responsibility of electronic product manufacturers to consider the
end-of-life impact of their products and the need for better recycling initiatives globally.

BY S E T H DOANE
NO V E MBER 26, 2023 / 10:11 AM EST / CBS NEWS
1. What is the News article all about?

The news article focuses on the environmental and health implications of electronic
waste, particularly in Ghana. It describes the process of urban mining, where e-waste
exported from the West is processed in unsafe conditions, leading to pollution and
health risks for workers, including children. The report underscores the challenges
associated with improper e-waste disposal, including burning to extract minerals, and
highlights the potential consequences for individuals living in proximity to these sites. It
introduces initiatives, such as Fairphone, that aim to promote sustainable design and
recycling practices in response to the growing issue of electronic waste. The article
emphasizes the responsibility of electronic product manufacturers to consider the
environmental impact of their products throughout their lifecycle and the need for
improved recycling efforts on a global scale.

What is the impact of the news article to the people?

The news article highlights the detrimental impact of electronic waste in Ghana, where
unsafe processing methods pose serious health risks to workers, including children, and
contribute to environmental pollution. It raises concerns about the social and economic
consequences of such practices. Initiatives like Fairphone are introduced as potential
solutions, emphasizing the need for responsible consumer choices and urging electronic
manufacturers to adopt more sustainable practices. In essence, the article underscores
the urgent global need to address the health, environmental, and ethical challenges
associated with electronic waste disposal.

How are the users of this technology being affected by that article published?

The article impacts technology users by raising awareness of the environmental and
health repercussions of electronic waste. Readers may reconsider their consumption
habits, opting for more ethical and sustainable choices in electronic purchases.
Initiatives like Fairphone, introduced in the article, may influence users to support
products designed for recyclability and longevity. As consumers become more informed,
they may advocate for industry-wide changes, demanding greater accountability from
electronic manufacturers and promoting responsible recycling practices. Overall, the
article has the potential to inspire a collective shift towards more environmentally
conscious consumer behavior and a demand for sustainable practices within the
technology sector.

What are the steps/prevention should we make to avoid this danger of technology?

To prevent the dangers associated with technology, prioritize sustainable design by

supporting manufacturers that emphasize product longevity and recyclability. Extend
the lifespan of electronic devices through regular maintenance, repairs, and responsible
recycling at authorized facilities. Educate consumers about the environmental and
health impacts of improper e-waste disposal, fostering informed decision-making and
responsible consumption. Advocate for government regulations enforcing proper e-
waste management and corporate responsibility throughout the product lifecycle. Invest
in and support green technologies that prioritize energy efficiency and reduced
environmental impact. Embrace circular economy initiatives that promote the reuse,
repair, and recycling of electronic products, and participate in consumer awareness
campaigns to encourage responsible technology use and disposal.

Are we responsible on the impact of technology to us human? yes or no. support your
claim.

Yes. We are responsible for the impact of technology on us as humans. Our choices in
using, producing, and disposing of technology contribute to its effects on the
environment, health, and society. Responsible consumption, sustainable design, and
ethical disposal practices can mitigate negative impacts. Advocacy for regulations,
corporate responsibility, and informed decision-making empowers us to shape the
impact of technology on our lives and the world. Ultimately, our collective actions
determine whether technology enhances or diminishes our well-being and the
environment.