Waste to useful materials

In first glance, what do you think of this pile of waste computer

They are rubbish or hidden gem?

Different people shares different views. But being a student as well as an employee from Environmental Management field. They are not worth for simply sending to trash sites (landfills). On one hand, they are harmful before proper detoxification (removal of the heavy metals). On the second hand, Carbon Footprint will be generated.

In Hong Kong, 30000 tonnes of Waste Electronic and Electrical Equipment are being treated annually.

(Photo taken by Ms. Emily Yu, 16.02.2024)

The photo above was taken during the visited to Eco-park (16.02.2024), it demonstrated the dedication from ALBA and the Environmental Protection Department of Hong Kong on recycling WEEE. Upon the recycling procedures, useful materials can be retrieved.

(Photo taken by Ms. Emily Yu, 16.02.2024)

Metallic resources (i.e. Iron, Copper, Aluminium) can be retrieve back from the old computers and other types of WEEE; these valuable sources can directly use without further refinery.