To the New York City Legislature and Mayor Adams, we need to make a change. As students in high school, we have recently learned of the problems of E-Waste and we wish to help make a change.

E-waste, slowly making its way to one of our biggest environmental problems, describes waste that includes anything with plugs, cords, and electronic components. Mostly made up of parts from computers, phones, and any type of home appliance, about 50 million tons of E-waste is produced per year. This figure is only expected to double by 2050. 

The problem with E-waste is management; Not only do consumers not properly dispose of their E-waste, but many manufacturers do not take a role in the proper disposal of consumer E-waste. Improper disposal of E-waste leads to environmental problems and health hazards for people worldwide. 

E-waste, a non-biodegradable material, heavily contributes to air and water pollution, soil contamination, a loss of biodiversity, and climate change. This problem affects every corner of the globe and will continue to get worse if action isn’t taken. 

In addition, recycling plants, where workers have to interact with E-waste with little to no protective gear, are exposed to chemicals, such as mercury, lead, cadmium, brominated flame retardants, and polychlorinated biphenyls. These chemicals are highly carcinogenic and can lead to a variety of health issues, including cognitive defects, damage to the nervous system, kidney damage, bone fragility, lung disease, and even cancer. 

Technology is the future, and the amount of E-waste in the world is bound to grow. If we delay the time for change, the chance for change will undoubtedly diminish. Improper management of E-waste needs to be fixed as soon as possible. Immediate action by developing local E-Waste recycling programs will without a doubt, lessen the damage caused to the environment and people worldwide.

This petition would further push Mayor Adams and lawmakers to expand and develop the current NYS Electronic Equipment Recycling and Reuse Act. This would allow a wider range of electronic devices to be recycled and would make it easier for residents to recycle their e-waste.

By signing this petition, you are urging Mayor Eric Adams and New York lawmakers to further develop and promote responsible E-Waste recycling programs. 

Sign this petition and help protect our planet and its people!