If electronic waste is dumped in landfill the hazardous and toxic substances some items contain – like lead and mercury – can leach into soil and water. This adds to pollution, which negatively affects the surrounding environment and health of those living and working nearby.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) claims that people trying to recover precious metals from e-waste in landfill could be exposed to a thousand harmful substances. This can lead to all sorts of health complications. Recycling and proper disposal of electronic waste avoids it ending up in landfill and potentially harming humans and the environment.