Why are chargers becoming e-waste?
Technology is all around us - cellphones, tablets, laptops, headphones, etc. All these wireless devices need to be charged. So when we buy them - they usually come with a charger. Different devices can also require chargers of different shapes and sizes.
Storing so many devices and chargers can make for a messy drawer. Electronics which we no longer need are called electronic waste or e-waste.
Is anyone doing anything to reduce e-waste?
The European Union (EU) has decided to fix this problem. The EU is a group of 27 countries in Europe. They are planning to pass a new law. According to this law, all electronics sold inside Europe will have to have a Type-C charging port. This universal charger will be used all over Europe. It will help in reducing e-waste.
This means that only a single charger will be able to charge a person’s phone, tablet, headphones, digital camera, wireless speaker, etc. This law will come into effect in 2024.
Is e-waste something we should worry about?
Yes, of course! The world makes so much e-waste every year. Electronic devices have some valuable materials like chips and wires that can be recycled.
They are used to make other electronics. What cannot be recycled is thrown into landfills in countries like China and Africa.
E-waste contains plastics and metals like lead and mercury. These metals are very harmful for the environment.
Is anyone against having one charger for all devices?
Some technology companies are unhappy with this new law. Many companies will lose a lot of money now that there will be a universal charger. This means they won’t be able to sell their chargers with new devices.
Will the EU succeed in its mission?
Companies may not be happy with this, but it is good news for people like us! It will encourage people to take care of their chargers since they can use them for all their devices. This small step by the EU could make the world a greener place!
