Tackling E-Waste

International E-Waste Day, celebrated on 14 October annually, is a global reminder of our responsibility to properly dispose of and recycle electronic waste, also known as e-waste.
 
According to the Malaysian Department of Environment, “e-waste” refers to broken, non-working or old / obsolete electric electronic appliances such as televisions, personal computers, air conditioners, washing machines and refrigerators[1]. 
 
E-waste also includes other discarded electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, and landline telephones.  As technology advance, we tend to upgrade our devices at home and in the office.  This leads to an increase in the volume of e-waste produced each year, posing a significant threat to the environment.  Improper e-waste disposal can lead to the release of toxic substances, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can contaminate soil, water, and air, harming wildlife and human health.
 
Why is E-Waste a Problem?
 

1. Toxic Components: E-waste contains hazardous materials that can seep into the environment, causing serious pollution and health risks.  When improperly handled, these toxins can end up in landfills where they further contaminate the soil and groundwater. 

 

2. Waste of Resources: Many electronic devices contain valuable materials like gold, silver, and copper.  When e-waste is not recycled, these resources are lost, increasing the need for new raw materials.  The environment is often severely impacted due to the extraction of these new resources. 

 

3. Volume of Waste: According to the World Health Organisation, e-waste is the fastest growing solid waste stream in the world, increasing three times faster than the world’s population[2].  Managing this growing volume of waste is a significant challenge for waste management systems worldwide. 

 
How Can You Make a Difference?
 

1. Recycle and Dispose Responsibly: As consumers, we are responsible for disposing e-waste properly.  You are strongly encouraged to send your office and household e-waste to any registered collection centre or recovery facility licensed by the Malaysian Department of Environment.  You can either send the items yourself or contact any registered collection centre that offers a pickup service from your home. 

 

2. Donate or Sell: If your electronic device is still functional, you may wish to consider donating it to someone in need or selling it.  Extending the life of electronic devices can significantly reduce the amount of e-waste generated. 

 

3. Support Sustainable Products: When purchasing new electronic devices, look for products that were designed with sustainability in mind.  This includes devices that are energy-efficient, made from recycled materials, or designed to be easily repairable and upgradeable. 

 

4. Become an Advocate for the Environment: Spread awareness about the importance of responsible e-waste disposal.  Encourage your colleagues, family, and friends to properly recycle and dispose of their e-waste. 

 
Environmental, Social, and Governance (“ESG”) Considerations
 
In recent years, ESG factors have become increasingly important for law firms to consider.  When it comes to e-waste, incorporating ESG principles can help ensure that the lifecycle of electronic products is managed more sustainably.  For law firms, this would involve sourcing for sustainable electronic products with longer lifespans and establishing a firm-wide recycling/disposal procedure.  In doing this, law firms will be able to mitigate environmental risks and enhance their corporate social responsibility.  This will lead to better long-term sustainability and greater trust from clients. 
 
At the end of the day, addressing the e-waste crisis is one of many ways to protect the environment.  By recycling and disposing of electronic devices responsibly, law firms will not only improve their ESG practices and reputation but also avert the toxic impact of e-waste and contribute to a healthier planet for future generations.