Discarded electronic devices
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Already this year Auckland Council has had at least 13 rubbish truck fires caused by discarded batteries. They over heat and spark up the other rubbish, costing the council up to $5000 a truck fire. An audit of kerbside bins in 2023 showed 71 percent of them contained electronic waste. Echo Chief Executive Officer Patrick Moynahan spoke to Lisa Owen.
Critical minerals are key to green technologies, but their supply is dominated by a small number of countries. Recycling could, in theory, open up a new source of supply of these minerals—but that too is dominated by a small number of countries. Rebecca and Joe talk to Megan O'Connor, CEO and co-founder of Nth Cycle. The start-up's Oyster system has the potential to transform the recycling business. Visit us at ourindustriallife.com
Send me a messageIn this episode, I sit down once again with Kenny McGee, CEO of Component Sense, to delve into one of the most confronting aspects of global supply chains — electronic waste, or e-waste.Kenny recently returned from Agbogbloshie, Ghana, a site once dubbed the world's largest e-waste dump. What he found there was far more complex than expected: a vast, informal economy built around salvaging, repairing, and repurposing our discarded electronics. From TVs and fridges to circuit boards and copper wiring, items we think are being “recycled” are often ending up in the hands of workers — many of them teenagers — who burn, strip, and break devices using bare hands and basic tools.We talk through the journey of a used TV from a UK household to the streets of Accra, explore the supply chains that enable illegal exports of e-waste, and reflect on the human and environmental costs tied to our throwaway tech culture. Kenny also shares the hopeful side — stories of resilience, resourcefulness, and local charity-led education and healthcare initiatives.Key takeaways:Why the second-hand trade isn't inherently bad — but needs regulation.How plastic and clothing waste are compounding the e-waste problem.The role manufacturers must play in designing for repair and reuse.Why abrupt changes to e-waste flows could hurt the very people we aim to hElevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain' podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Drunk AgileDan Vacanti and Prateek Singh drink whisk(e)y and discuss various facets of agile...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.
Are you wasting valuable metals without knowing it?Precious metals like platinum and palladium from end-of-life catalytic converters are often discarded — but Regenx Tech is changing that with a sustainable, eco-friendly recovery solution.In this episode of the Conscious Design Podcast, Don Weatherbee, CEO of Regenx Tech Corp, joins host Ian Peterman to share how their innovative cleantech process is revolutionizing precious metal recovery without the need for traditional high-emission smelting.
Peter Mayhew and Kris Alvarez, Keypoint Intelligence's Cartridge Analysts Ruminating about Toner and Supplies (CARTS) team, are joined by guest host Carl Schell to continue digging into the weighty topic of sustainability. After discussing the environmental impact of the print industry, particularly with e-waste, the trio share thoughts on those “re” words (remanufacturing, reuse, etc.), consumer responsibility, and way more—it's Global Recycling Day, be green.
The European Recycling Platform (ERP), Ireland's only pan-European compliance scheme for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and Waste Batteries continues their Sustainability Partnership with St. Patrick's Festival, coinciding with their 20th anniversary in Ireland. ERP, in collaboration with artist group FORJA Works, has created a WEEE-inspired installation entitled 'EcoTrashShip' that will take festivalgoers on a mission to reduce electrical waste on Earth while reaching for the stars! With research showing that 1 in 3 people are hoarding unused or broken electrical items in their homes, ERP is encouraging everyone to Go Green and Boldy Recycle their electrical waste. EcoTrashShip The ERP 'EcoTrashShip' is a fun, space-themed installation that stands over 16 feet tall, is fully solar powered, and is composed of more than 100 electrical items, such as TVs, laptops, phones, and cables, which are some of the most frequently recycled electrical items in Ireland. Research conducted by Coyne Research in January 2025 revealed that 1 in 5 (20%) people in Ireland recycled old TVs in the past 12 months, 1 in 6 (17%) recycled old mobile phones, and 1 in 8 (13%) recycled old laptops. Since the WEEE Directive was launched in Ireland in 2005, ERP has collected almost 220,000 tonnes of WEEE, and 4,500 tonnes of batteries in Ireland - that's 480 times the weight of the International Space Station! This year's St. Patrick's Festival theme, Adventures (Eachtraí), celebrates the adventurous spirit that defines Irish culture. The ERP 'EcoTrashShip' aligns with this spirit by blending art and activism, aiming to inspire change and highlights ERP's commitment to a circular future where nothing goes to waste. James Burgess, Country General Manager of ERP Ireland said: "What if your old kettle, laptop, or hairdryer became part of a spaceship? When you recycle your electrical waste, these products are broken down, and the materials can be reused. Every wire, chip, and circuit in this spaceship has had a past life - from the gadgets we've outgrown to the stars we dream of - the EcoTrashShip is transforming everyday waste into something extraordinary. We are excited to be working with St. Patrick's Festival again this year to join them on eco-friendly adventure! We hope our EcoTrashShip will inspire the thousands of visitors in Dublin over the weekend to join our mission to Go Green and Boldly Recycle their old and broken electrical items!" Richard Tierney, CEO of St. Patrick's Festival said: "We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the European Recycling Platform for a second year, building on the success of our collaboration in promoting sustainability. Last year, the Trash Mammoth captured imaginations and sparked vital conversations about responsible recycling. This year, it has evolved into the EcoTrashShip - taking our mission to new heights and inspiring even more communities to embrace sustainable practices. Sustainability remains at the heart of our organisation, and by working with the European Recycling Platform, we can continue leading the way toward a greener future." FORJA Works ensure a circular construction process; the spaceship will be disassembled after the weekend and all materials re-purposed for future art projects. This approach transforms discarded technological components into functional and artistic materials, promoting sustainability while addressing the growing challenge of e-waste. Photo Caption: Pictured are Sienna Lavery (11), Freya Lavery (7), and Ethan Holmes (11) as ERP Ireland's EcoTrashShip blasts off at St. Patrick's Festival this weekend. Transforming yesterday's e-waste into tomorrow's exploration, EcoTrashShip is made from over 100 electrical items and stands at 16 feet tall. Its mission is to reduce waste on Earth while reaching for the stars! The installation will be on display at St. Patrick's Park, Dublin 8, on 15th and 16th March from 11am to 5pm. About ERP European Recycling Platf...
Sustainability in IT is no longer just a buzzword—it's a necessity. But how can ITAM play a role in making organisations greener and more responsible? Is the business world truly aware of the scale of the challenge ahead? AJ Witt and Megan Barradell from SHI share their insights on the topic. "We've got the vision, and the willingness is there—but the real question is, how do we actually make it happen?" – Megan Baradell
Kenny McGee is Founder & CEO of Component Sense, a company which focuses on the redistribution of excess and obsolete electronic components and whose motto is to "empower sustainability in electronic manufacturing." In this episode, we discuss the EU's circular economy plan and its relation to e-waste, as well as other EU policy areas such as WEEE and RoHS, the advice Kenny would give to consumers and companies looking to reduce their e-waste footprint, as well as what he feels are the most important changes that need to happen to make the electronics sector more sustainable.
Kenny McGee is Founder & CEO of Component Sense, a company which focuses on the redistribution of excess and obsolete electronic components and whose motto is to "empower sustainability in electronic manufacturing." In this episode, we discuss the current state of the e-waste market, Component Sense's 'Electronic Waste Manifesto' and what he thinks stakeholders need to do to scale up e-waste solutions.
Send us a textStephanie McLarty, Head of Sustainability at Quantum Lifecycle Partners, unpacks the critical 2025 amendments to the Basel Convention and their impact on global e-waste management. Learn how new rules governing transboundary movements of electronic waste could reshape supply chains, compliance requirements, and recycling practices—even for businesses not directly involved in international trade.Key Takeaways:Basel Convention Basics: Established in 1989 to regulate hazardous waste trade, now expanded to include stricter controls on e-waste (e-Amendments).New Definitions: Covers whole electronics, components (e.g., circuit boards), and processed fractions (e.g., shredded materials).Prior Informed Consent (PIC): Exporters must obtain written approval from importing countries before shipping regulated materials.Country-Specific Rules: Implementation varies by nation (e.g., Canada's exemption for OECD imports), creating compliance complexity.Supply Chain Ripple Effects: Indirect impacts on pricing, turnaround times, and certifications (e.g., R2V3 compliance risks).Action Steps: Audit supply chains, stay updated on regulatory shifts, and collaborate with certified partners like Quantum.Thanks for listening! If you like our podcasts, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple or wherever you get your podcasts from. Want to be a guest on The Circular Future podcast? Email Sanjay Trivedi at strivedi@quantumlifecycle.com Listen on: https://quantumlifecycle.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn | Facebook
Full news this week: https://retrohandhelds.gg/retro-handhelds-weekly-edition-33/Watch this episode on YouTube!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Topics:0:00 - We're going up!4:52 - What are we up to?18:24 - RomM Releases Official muOS App21:07 - PSN Down!26:41 - AYN U.S. Shipping Pause39:40 - E Waste of the Week48:25 - Stubbs' Serious Talk52:19 - Magnet Unboxings59:56 - The Final Three Handhelds? ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Panel:@retrotechdad @ban6756 @StubbsStuff Andrew from rh.gg Our latest finds and tasty deals of the week!https://rh-go.link/Dills〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰✨Join and become a Channel Member to get access to unique perks!https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3IYhdamzjvEJ9CwkQa4RAw/join〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰
Send us a textIn this podcast episode, Stephanie McLarty speaks with Julie-Ann Adams about the evolving landscape of European legislation affecting sustainability, particularly in the realms of e-waste and battery recycling. They discuss the complexities of the EU Waste Shipment Regulation, the implications of the Basel Convention changes, and the upcoming battery legislation. Julie-Ann emphasizes the importance of understanding these regulations for companies operating in or exporting to Europe, highlighting the need for proactive measures to ensure compliance and sustainability.TakeawaysEurope is leading in environmental protections and legislation.The EU Waste Shipment Regulation has new administrative requirements.The Basel Convention now bans hazardous waste shipments to non-OECD countries.Battery legislation will require removable batteries by 2027.Companies need to understand the complexities of EU regulations.Networking and joining professional associations are crucial for compliance.Digital tracking of hazardous waste will enhance transparency.Proactivity is essential for companies to remain competitive.Understanding the supply chain is vital for compliance with new laws.Thanks for listening! If you like our podcasts, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple or wherever you get your podcasts from. Want to be a guest on The Circular Future podcast? Email Sanjay Trivedi at strivedi@quantumlifecycle.com Listen on: https://quantumlifecycle.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn | Facebook
Auckland Council's sounding the alarm over a spike in rubbish-truck fires this month. It says more and more risky batteries and battery-powered devices are being illegally dumped in bins. In December alone, nearly 600 laptops and more than 300 12-volt batteries ended up in Auckland's regional recycling facility. Parul Sood, Auckland Council's Deputy Director of Resilience and Infrastructure, told Andrew Dickens that the council website has a list of places you can take e-waste, and many retailers actually offer to take it back for free. She says it's a community responsibility to do the right thing, so people just need to spend a little more time thinking before automatically tossing something in the rubbish bin. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
E-waste recycling is an important part of managing our carbon footprint. In this episode, Adam Torres interviews Max Montes, Sales Manager at Full Circle Electronics dba Cal Micro Recycling, explore the world of e-waste recycling and what consumers should know. Follow Adam on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/ Visit our website: https://missionmatters.com/ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia
In this week's Talking Tech, Poppy discusses how the tech industry must address its environmental impact, with ICT emissions rising and e-waste doubling by 2030. CIOs see IT as vital to sustainability, emphasising smarter data use, collaboration, and waste reduction. Innovations like Vodaland's EasyPave and sustainable construction materials are paving the way for a greener future.
On this episode of Hands-On Mac, Mikah answers questions about what to do with old electronics, extracting photos out of downloaded files and maintaining the original photo names, how to properly manage your phone's battery, and a question from a listen about the best way to manage their router setup! Kelli came across some old electronics her father had years ago! She thinks they could be worth something but wonders if she should recycle them instead. Ray has their iPhone wirelessly charging at night while on Do Not Disturb. However, it randomly makes a sound at night! How can he get his phone to stop making that noise? Sean just downloaded their Google photos to back them up on an external drive. How can he keep the photos' original names when he extracts the files? Dan wonders how to manage their phone's battery life best when they keep it plugged in most of the time. Alan has three routers throughout his household in his home network. When he goes to different points in the house, he has to change the SSID to the router closest to where he is. Is there a simpler way of doing this before going to a Mesh router setup? Don't forget to send in your questions for Mikah to answer during the show! hot@twit.tv Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Tech at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-tech Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: cachefly.com/twit
On this episode of Hands-On Tech, Mikah answers questions about what to do with old electronics, extracting photos out of downloaded files and maintaining the original photo names, how to properly manage your phone's battery, and a question from a listen about the best way to manage their router setup! Kelli came across some old electronics her father had years ago! She thinks they could be worth something but wonders if she should recycle them instead. Ray has their iPhone wirelessly charging at night while on Do Not Disturb. However, it randomly makes a sound at night! How can he get his phone to stop making that noise? Sean just downloaded their Google photos to back them up on an external drive. How can he keep the photos' original names when he extracts the files? Dan wonders how to manage their phone's battery life best when they keep it plugged in most of the time. Alan has three routers throughout his household in his home network. When he goes to different points in the house, he has to change the SSID to the router closest to where he is. Is there a simpler way of doing this before going to a Mesh router setup? Don't forget to send in your questions for Mikah to answer during the show! hot@twit.tv Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Tech at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-tech Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: cachefly.com/twit
On this episode of Hands-On Mac, Mikah answers questions about what to do with old electronics, extracting photos out of downloaded files and maintaining the original photo names, how to properly manage your phone's battery, and a question from a listen about the best way to manage their router setup! Kelli came across some old electronics her father had years ago! She thinks they could be worth something but wonders if she should recycle them instead. Ray has their iPhone wirelessly charging at night while on Do Not Disturb. However, it randomly makes a sound at night! How can he get his phone to stop making that noise? Sean just downloaded their Google photos to back them up on an external drive. How can he keep the photos' original names when he extracts the files? Dan wonders how to manage their phone's battery life best when they keep it plugged in most of the time. Alan has three routers throughout his household in his home network. When he goes to different points in the house, he has to change the SSID to the router closest to where he is. Is there a simpler way of doing this before going to a Mesh router setup? Don't forget to send in your questions for Mikah to answer during the show! hot@twit.tv Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Tech at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-tech Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: cachefly.com/twit
On this episode of Hands-On Mac, Mikah answers questions about what to do with old electronics, extracting photos out of downloaded files and maintaining the original photo names, how to properly manage your phone's battery, and a question from a listen about the best way to manage their router setup! Kelli came across some old electronics her father had years ago! She thinks they could be worth something but wonders if she should recycle them instead. Ray has their iPhone wirelessly charging at night while on Do Not Disturb. However, it randomly makes a sound at night! How can he get his phone to stop making that noise? Sean just downloaded their Google photos to back them up on an external drive. How can he keep the photos' original names when he extracts the files? Dan wonders how to manage their phone's battery life best when they keep it plugged in most of the time. Alan has three routers throughout his household in his home network. When he goes to different points in the house, he has to change the SSID to the router closest to where he is. Is there a simpler way of doing this before going to a Mesh router setup? Don't forget to send in your questions for Mikah to answer during the show! hot@twit.tv Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Tech at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-tech Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: cachefly.com/twit
On this episode of Hands-On Mac, Mikah answers questions about what to do with old electronics, extracting photos out of downloaded files and maintaining the original photo names, how to properly manage your phone's battery, and a question from a listen about the best way to manage their router setup! Kelli came across some old electronics her father had years ago! She thinks they could be worth something but wonders if she should recycle them instead. Ray has their iPhone wirelessly charging at night while on Do Not Disturb. However, it randomly makes a sound at night! How can he get his phone to stop making that noise? Sean just downloaded their Google photos to back them up on an external drive. How can he keep the photos' original names when he extracts the files? Dan wonders how to manage their phone's battery life best when they keep it plugged in most of the time. Alan has three routers throughout his household in his home network. When he goes to different points in the house, he has to change the SSID to the router closest to where he is. Is there a simpler way of doing this before going to a Mesh router setup? Don't forget to send in your questions for Mikah to answer during the show! hot@twit.tv Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Tech at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-tech Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: cachefly.com/twit
On this episode of Hands-On Tech, Mikah answers questions about what to do with old electronics, extracting photos out of downloaded files and maintaining the original photo names, how to properly manage your phone's battery, and a question from a listen about the best way to manage their router setup! Kelli came across some old electronics her father had years ago! She thinks they could be worth something but wonders if she should recycle them instead. Ray has their iPhone wirelessly charging at night while on Do Not Disturb. However, it randomly makes a sound at night! How can he get his phone to stop making that noise? Sean just downloaded their Google photos to back them up on an external drive. How can he keep the photos' original names when he extracts the files? Dan wonders how to manage their phone's battery life best when they keep it plugged in most of the time. Alan has three routers throughout his household in his home network. When he goes to different points in the house, he has to change the SSID to the router closest to where he is. Is there a simpler way of doing this before going to a Mesh router setup? Don't forget to send in your questions for Mikah to answer during the show! hot@twit.tv Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Tech at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-tech Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: cachefly.com/twit
Send us a textCan you imagine launching a nonprofit at just 12 years old? That's exactly what Rob Bergquist did, and today, he's the driving force behind Cell Phones for Soldiers, a remarkable initiative that has turned old cell phones into a lifeline for troops overseas. Teaming up with Andrew Kroeger from the advisory board, we explore how this organization has provided over 400 million minutes of airtime by recycling more than 25 million cell phones. We also navigate the early hurdles they faced, including a cease-and-desist order from the Department of Defense, and how they ingeniously pivoted to create a sustainable solution for connectivity and environmental impact.The broader landscape of electronic waste and its potential to change lives is a topic worth pondering. Transitioning from a tech-oriented career, I've co-founded a company focusing on the digital divide and veterans' issues, working closely with Robbie's organization. During our conversation, we tackle how e-waste can be transformed into essential resources for veterans, offering them not just devices but hope and opportunities. Robbie's passion for collecting T-Mobile sidekicks is more than a quirky hobby—it's a testament to the evolving nature of phone donations and the pressing need for quality devices.Exciting developments are on the horizon as Cell Phones for Soldiers plans to roll out a mobile app tailored for veterans. This app is envisioned to provide not just a phone and service but also a gateway to crucial resources like free meals, job opportunities, and mental health support. We underscore the power of storytelling and community outreach, inviting listeners to contribute to this noble cause and support veterans in need of connectivity. Tune in for an inspiring narrative about transformation, sustainability, and the profound impact of giving back.
On this episode of Hands-On Mac, Mikah answers questions about what to do with old electronics, extracting photos out of downloaded files and maintaining the original photo names, how to properly manage your phone's battery, and a question from a listen about the best way to manage their router setup! Kelli came across some old electronics her father had years ago! She thinks they could be worth something but wonders if she should recycle them instead. Ray has their iPhone wirelessly charging at night while on Do Not Disturb. However, it randomly makes a sound at night! How can he get his phone to stop making that noise? Sean just downloaded their Google photos to back them up on an external drive. How can he keep the photos' original names when he extracts the files? Dan wonders how to manage their phone's battery life best when they keep it plugged in most of the time. Alan has three routers throughout his household in his home network. When he goes to different points in the house, he has to change the SSID to the router closest to where he is. Is there a simpler way of doing this before going to a Mesh router setup? Don't forget to send in your questions for Mikah to answer during the show! hot@twit.tv Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Tech at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-tech Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: cachefly.com/twit
On this episode of Hands-On Mac, Mikah answers questions about what to do with old electronics, extracting photos out of downloaded files and maintaining the original photo names, how to properly manage your phone's battery, and a question from a listen about the best way to manage their router setup! Kelli came across some old electronics her father had years ago! She thinks they could be worth something but wonders if she should recycle them instead. Ray has their iPhone wirelessly charging at night while on Do Not Disturb. However, it randomly makes a sound at night! How can he get his phone to stop making that noise? Sean just downloaded their Google photos to back them up on an external drive. How can he keep the photos' original names when he extracts the files? Dan wonders how to manage their phone's battery life best when they keep it plugged in most of the time. Alan has three routers throughout his household in his home network. When he goes to different points in the house, he has to change the SSID to the router closest to where he is. Is there a simpler way of doing this before going to a Mesh router setup? Don't forget to send in your questions for Mikah to answer during the show! hot@twit.tv Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Tech at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-tech Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: cachefly.com/twit
On this episode of Hands-On Mac, Mikah answers questions about what to do with old electronics, extracting photos out of downloaded files and maintaining the original photo names, how to properly manage your phone's battery, and a question from a listen about the best way to manage their router setup! Kelli came across some old electronics her father had years ago! She thinks they could be worth something but wonders if she should recycle them instead. Ray has their iPhone wirelessly charging at night while on Do Not Disturb. However, it randomly makes a sound at night! How can he get his phone to stop making that noise? Sean just downloaded their Google photos to back them up on an external drive. How can he keep the photos' original names when he extracts the files? Dan wonders how to manage their phone's battery life best when they keep it plugged in most of the time. Alan has three routers throughout his household in his home network. When he goes to different points in the house, he has to change the SSID to the router closest to where he is. Is there a simpler way of doing this before going to a Mesh router setup? Don't forget to send in your questions for Mikah to answer during the show! hot@twit.tv Host: Mikah Sargent Download or subscribe to Hands-On Tech at https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-tech Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: cachefly.com/twit
Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy is a documentary that was released on Netflix a week before Black Friday. The movie reveals the shocking truth about how large corporations manipulate consumers to increase their profits at the peril of the consumer's wallet and the planet's health. In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the recently released Netflix documentary, Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy. The episode focuses on the themes of consumerism, overconsumption, and their environmental impacts, especially in the context of the holiday shopping season. Major Points Discussed: Consumer Culture and Overconsumption: The documentary critiques how companies like Amazon, Adidas, and Apple use persuasive marketing techniques to encourage consumers to overspend. It raises questions about whether society has prioritized material possessions over experiences and relationships. Environmental Impacts: The film highlights the ecological damage caused by excessive consumption, including the disposal of unsold clothing, which contributes to environmental degradation in countries like Ghana. It discusses the issue of e-waste, revealing how discarded electronics are often shipped to developing countries, leading to health hazards for workers who dismantle them without proper protection. Textile Waste and Fast Fashion: The documentary examines the fast fashion industry, showcasing how companies produce millions of items annually, resulting in significant textile waste that pollutes ecosystems. It emphasizes the harmful effects of synthetic fabrics, which release microplastics into waterways. Carbon Footprint and Resource Depletion: The production and transportation of goods are linked to high fossil fuel consumption, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. The extraction of raw materials for consumer goods leads to deforestation and loss of biodiversity. Plastic Waste and Ocean Pollution: Excessive packaging, often made from non-recyclable plastics, exacerbates the plastic waste crisis, harming marine life and ecosystems. The episode stresses the urgent need for sustainable consumption practices to mitigate these issues. Consumer Responsibility vs. Systemic Solutions: While the documentary raises awareness about consumer manipulation, it also questions whether the onus of change should solely fall on consumers. Lewin argues for the need for systematic solutions and corporate accountability to address the root causes of overconsumption and environmental degradation. Personal Reflections: Lewin shares his own struggles with impulse buying and the societal pressures to consume, especially during the holiday season. He encourages listeners to think critically about their purchases and consider sustainable alternatives, such as thrift shopping. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to reflect on their consumption habits and engage in discussions about sustainability and environmental protection. Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program. Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube
This Week in Green Software, host Chris Adams and Asim Hussain, Executive Director of the GSF discuss the latest developments in sustainable software, exploring topics like Microsoft's innovative use of cross-laminated timber in data centers to reduce embodied carbon, the environmental challenges of generative AI hardware, and the groundbreaking Real Time Cloud dataset. They delve into the impact of new international energy efficiency directives, the interplay between geopolitics and sustainability, and surprising developments in China's approach to sustainable technology. Packed with insights, this episode offers an in-depth look at the intersection of technology and climate action.
Component Sense is tackling the e-waste crisis head-on by redistributing excess, unused stock from major companies before it becomes waste. In this episode of the Altium OnTrack podcast, we talk with Kenny McGee, founder and CEO of Component Sense, about the hidden issues of electronic component disposal. Discover what happens to stockpiled electronics, why companies over-purchase components, and the innovative solutions that companies like Component Sense are implementing to reduce e-waste. Kenny shares insights from years in the electronics distribution market, the challenges of moving unused inventory, and the environmental impacts of traditional disposal methods. This conversation highlights the importance of responsible component management and the potential to create a sustainable future in electronics. Tune in to learn more about the environmental and ethical implications of e-waste, and see how you can contribute to positive change in the industry.
In this enlightening episode of Your Tech Report, Marc Aflalo is joined once again by Sandeep Panesar to delve deeper into the pressing issues of planned obsolescence and the digital divide. Sandeep begins by outlining the four types of obsolescence—systemic, perceived, functional, and technological—explaining how these strategies are purposefully designed to drive consumer spending. He highlights examples from tech and fashion, showcasing how companies use planned obsolescence to influence buying behavior. Marc and Sandeep also discuss the rising cost of technology and how these price hikes contribute to a widening digital divide. While first-world consumers may be able to keep up with new models, people in developing regions face significant barriers to access. The conversation shifts to the broader impact on society, touching on e-waste, resource exploitation, and the importance of moving toward a circular economy that focuses on reuse and recycling. The episode ends on an introspective note, recognizing that while solutions may be complex, awareness and conversation are critical first steps toward meaningful change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What do you love about the show? Let us know! In this episode of Discover Daily, we explore a symbolic clash between Russia and Google, where Russian courts imposed an astronomical fine of $20.6 decillion - a number so large it exceeds the world's total wealth. This unprecedented penalty, while unenforceable, highlights growing tensions between national governments and global tech platforms over content moderation and digital sovereignty.We then uncover alarming findings about toxic flame retardants in everyday black plastic items, including kitchen utensils and food containers. A groundbreaking study reveals that 85% of tested black plastic products contain dangerous chemicals from recycled electronic waste, raising serious health concerns about cancer risks and developmental issues, with particularly high concentrations found in items like sushi trays.Finally, we delve into a fascinating legal case from Ecuador where the Los Cedros cloud forest could become the world's first ecosystem recognized as a musical co-creator. The innovative project, "Song of the Cedars," combines natural forest sounds with human composition, challenging traditional notions of authorship while building on Ecuador's unique legal framework that recognizes the Rights of Nature. This groundbreaking initiative could set a precedent for how we value and protect natural ecosystems worldwide.From Perplexity's Discover Feed:https://www.perplexity.ai/page/how-russia-fined-google-20-dec-fd6st_4kRE.wxtY3sngS_whttps://www.perplexity.ai/page/toxic-black-plastic-from-e-was-.JqK77TjRxOndoO7X0W6vQhttps://www.perplexity.ai/page/did-ecuador-s-forest-co-write-SiQQNLACRtScTzKvernGhQPerplexity is the fastest and most powerful way to search the web. Perplexity crawls the web and curates the most relevant and up-to-date sources (from academic papers to Reddit threads) to create the perfect response to any question or topic you're interested in. Take the world's knowledge with you anywhere. Available on iOS and Android Join our growing Discord community for the latest updates and exclusive content. Follow us on: Instagram Threads X (Twitter) YouTube Linkedin
Send me a messageHere's a deep dive into sustainable IT with Ralph Loura, co-founder and Chairman of SustainableIT.org. In this episode, Ralph shares his journey from CIO to sustainability advocate and outlines why the tech industry must take accountability for its environmental impact. We cover the unique role of technology leaders in driving sustainability, tackling issues like e-waste, energy overuse, and the soaring environmental cost of AI.Ralph introduces SustainableIT.org's mission, which goes beyond carbon reduction. The organisation focuses on creating frameworks and standards for sustainable IT practices, encouraging tech leaders to adopt efficient, ethical, and green strategies in their operations. We also discuss their work on “sustainable AI,” a concept that pushes for energy-conscious AI applications by minimising resource consumption and carbon output.A key highlight of our chat was Ralph's practical advice for IT leaders navigating sustainability amidst growing regulations. He emphasises balancing AI's promises with its power demands and urges CIOs to consider long-term impacts on communities and the planet. Plus, Ralph discusses the importance of metrics, recommending KPIs that go beyond compliance to reflect real, measurable impact.If you're interested in practical steps to make tech greener and more responsible, you'll find this episode insightful. You can check out SustainableIT.org and download their white paper on sustainable AI for more resources.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.ContactIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn. If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show. CreditsMusic credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper
On today's show, local businesses are working to keep electronics out of landfills and in the recycling streams. Plus, keeping an eye on concussions.
There's a growing market for electronic recycling companies as the Generative Artificial Intelligence industry booms. Nature Computational Science has published a study finding the rise of the technology, means hardware and chip technology is quickly becoming outdated. It finds that it could create potentially five million tonnes of e-waste between 2020 and 2030. Echo Technology CEO Patrick Moynahan told Mike Hosking there's money to be made, as recycling companies are trying to adapt to keep up with demand. He says they're dealing with juggernauts like Nvidia, the most valuable company in the world. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The public is being encouraged to dig out unwanted electronics and cables which could contain valuable metals. We get the details from CEO of WEEE Ireland Leo Donovan.
Selangor has revealed that there are more than 200 illegal e-waste recycling facilities across Malaysia, with several identified in Rawang and Hulu Selangor. There are concerns also that these plants use hazardous methods, such as open burning or unsafe chemical processes, to extract valuable metals from electronic waste. Mohamed el-Fatatry, CEO & Founder of ERTH or Electronic Recycling Through Heroes, shares his thoughts on the current situation.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com
About a hundred mainly retired volunteers operate a not for profit out of Waipa, sifting through people discarded household electronics, essentially mining your junk for stuff that can be salvaged. They're diverting about 24 tonnes of e-waste going to landfill each year but it's only a fraction of what they'd like to be doing, Urban Miners chairperson, Mark Hanlon spoke to Lisa Owen.
Kabel, Drucker, Handys – all das landet irgendwann als E-Waste im Müll. In Indien hat sich ein ganzer informeller Sektor darum gebildet. Charlotte spricht mit Lukas über seinen Dreh in der Nähe von Delhi.
The UK Investor Magazine was delighted to welcome Peter Lai, CEO of Majestic Corporation, to the podcast for a deep dive into the emerging leader in sustainable circular economy solutions.Aquis-listed Majestic Corporation specialises in recycling and recovering precious and base metals from everyday materials that societies routinely discard. This includes electronics, catalytic converters, solar and battery materials.CEO Peter Lai outlines the benefits of recycling metals as opposed to mining, both from an environmental perspective, and from an economic perspective.Majestic Corporation has recently posted strong results for FY2023. Highlights include a 25% increase in revenue to US$29.4m and a 149% surge in profit before tax.Peter details Majestic's growth strategy and what excites him the most about future developments for the company. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Qs that we attempt to A in this month's question-fest include: What are some less obvious benefits of portable apps? How trustworthy is a package manager? Is a Windows Pro license really worth it? What's your microwave technique for even, efficient heating? How do you stop analyzing products and just buy something already? Is a MagSafe connector like a cloaca? Fair warning, like half of this episode ended up being about food. Support the Pod! Contribute to the Tech Pod Patreon and get access to our booming Discord, a monthly bonus episode, your name in the credits, and other great benefits! You can support the show at: https://patreon.com/techpod
Pippa speaks to the City of Cape Town's Grant Twigg, about how to get rid of your E-waste and how the city has facilities to help you safely dispose of these items. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Royal Mint in the UK is experimenting with doing something a little different with trash- mining it! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
eLoop CEO Ned Eldridge is all about pushing the boundaries of technology to make electronics recycling more sustainable. Ned steps up tot he One Mic Stand to share eLoop's approach to handling toxic materials like mercury in flat panel TVs and its collaborations with Carnegie Mellon University and Covestro to develop pilot programs for recycling ABS plastic from electronic waste. ELoop is using custom-built robots to disassemble flat panel displays and is finding ways to create closed loop systems for indium and plastics so they can be reused and not discarded in landfills. As a DEP permitted e-waste recycling facility, eLoop, believes in landfill diversion and auditable environmental compliance. eLoop has a completely transparent chain-of-custody and provides our customers with the most efficient, secure and sustainable solution available for IT assets and universal waste streams. Learn more at eloopllc.com.
Trimming Videos on Linux Made Easy, Writing Gooder with Ctrl+Revise, Firefox Gains a New Translation Feature, and Give Old Hardware a Second Life with Linux.
Dumbphones - stripped down phones without apps, like the phones we all used 15 years ago - are coming back into style. But there's a big problem: dumbphones are unlikely to be recycled or refurbished, according to James Murdock, co-founder of Alchemy, the world's largest circular tech company. His company has refreshed and resold more than six million devices across the world. In this podcast, Murdock talks about the environmental impact of e-waste, and how we can create a circular economy for devices, which is better for the planet and our pockets. “People and businesses who buy these refurbished devices are making a sustainability impact, saving carbon and also saving money – significant amounts of money,” says Murdock. “You can save money while doing the right thing for the environment.” James Murdock Alchemy is the fastest-growing circular tech company in the world. They are global experts in recovering, refreshing, and remarketing electronic devices such as phones, tablets, laptops, and wearables. “We recover, refresh and remarket,” says Murdock. “We handle a lot of mobility products like cell phones, and a lot of laptops and tablets from premium brands like Samsung, Apple and Google. We have 400 employees at Alchemy, each with a Mac and a phone, and none of us have ever had a new device. They are all refurbished.” Visit www.alchemyglobalsolutions.com
We generate so much e-waste per year that we could easily fill enough garbage trucks to circle the globe. In this episode we learn about innovative solutions to our growing e-waste problem, the EU's new right-to-repair legislation, and how this shift is challenging our throwaway mindset. Can we fix our way to a more sustainable future?
Tad Kirakowski, CEO of Irish Environmental Charity, VOICE and Kilian Kaminski, Refurbed
Rare earth elements are a group of 17 metals used in a wide range of things that make modern life possible, including batteries, magnets, LED light bulbs, phone screens, and catalytic converters.These elements are essential to a green economy because they are integral to many technologies designed to have low environmental impact. However, mining these metals is a dirty, complex, and costly process. And as the world transitions towards more clean energy production, the demand for them will continue to grow.One possible solution is to recycle rare earth elements when they're discarded in electronics waste. On stage in Ames, Iowa, Ira Flatow talks with Dr. Ikenna Nlebedim and Dr. Denis Prodius, two materials scientists from the Critical Materials Institute at the Ames National Laboratory who have developed a new acid-free method to recycle rare earth metals found in magnets.Transcript for this segment will be available the week after the show airs on sciencefriday.com. Subscribe to this podcast. Plus, to stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.
Signal Shift: Steering Towards Self-Driving Safety. Vegemite's Vital Role in Vanquishing Vexing E-Waste Volumes. WindWing Wonders: Revolutionising Shipping with Sails. Creative Carbon: Ballooning the Boundaries of Energy Storage. Remarkable Recycling: Transforming Timber Trash into Trendy Trinkets. Aussie Abodes' AI Ambition: Supercharging Suburban Sanctuaries by 2029. Grok Goes Global: Xai's Open-Source Odyssey Unveiled. Agile Androids: Parkour Robot Dog Dazzles with Dynamic Dexterity. Starship Soars: Spacex's Spectacular Test Takes Flight.
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