The U.S. Has a Huge E-Waste Problem. But There Is Money To Make in Its Disposal.

Running any business today involves using at least one electronic device. Some of these plastics, papers, and metals can get recycled forever (called “circularity” in sustainability circles), but options for recycling electronic waste, or e-waste, have not progressed as rapidly.

In 2021, the world produced enough e-waste to outweigh the Great Wall of China, but only 17 percent of that waste was recycled properly worldwide, and only 15 percent was recycled in the U.S. While a lot of this waste comes from individuals, businesses have a major role to play in recycling and reusing electronics, especially those looking to invest in sustainability.

The dangers of e-waste

So, what is e-waste, and how do we do a better job recycling it?

Broadly, e-waste is any electronic product or appliance that has outlived its usefulness. Batteries, computers, cell phones, headphones, remote controls, and televisions all fall under the category of e-waste.

E-waste differs from other types of waste in two key ways: First, e-waste contains hazardous materials, including lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic. Improper disposal methods, such as open-air burning to recover valuable material or leaving the e-waste in a…