Essentially, green technology has the goal of reducing, or reversing, the effects of human impact on our planet. There are many ways that we can work towards this goal, and they include individual, collective, national, and global efforts. The first step, before taking green technology measures, includes education on how humans have negatively affected our planet. Once this is achieved, measures can be put in place that assure we all actively work towards a healthier, better planet.

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Reduce the Effects of Climate Change

Solar, water-powered, and wind-powered energy are great ways we can alter the amount of energy we consume, and the effect that energy has on our planet. The Paris Agreement, for example, is a global effort to reduce the effects of climate change through green technology, with goals such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the global average temperature.

Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

Unfortunately, recycling plastic, cardboard, and magazines is not enough — but it’s a good start. We need to actively reduce waste through reusable goods, like cloth bags and ceramic coffee cups, in addition to curbing wasteful habits, like excessive energy usage. Further, many more products than you might think (like electronic goods or bicycles) are recyclable — though they may not be recyclable yet in your area. Composting is also a great way to repurpose waste.

Reduce Harmful Habits

In addition, don’t throw away your old clothes or products. Instead, donate them. If they’re in poor shape the company will pass them onto a recycling center so that the fabrics or materials can be repurposed. It’s also worth mentioning that “fast fashion” is detrimental to our environment, in its production and the promotion of wastefulness. Although e-waste, or the massive amount of old technology, is also a big issue, the Internet promotes reduction of paper waste. A better future — for all of us — includes changing or eliminating certain habits, from the food we eat, to the electronics we use, to how we get to work in the morning.

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What Things Are Considered E-Waste?

• DVDs and DVD players
• Mobile Phones
• Laptops, Tablets, and Home Computers
• Batteries
• Hard Disks
• Monitors
• Circuit Boards
• Cables and Wires
• Keyboards, Mice, and other Peripherals
• Digital Cameras
• Hard Drives
• GPS Units
• Video Game Systems
• Printers and Scanners
• Microwaves
• iPods and MP3 Players
• Modems and Routers

Other items like HVAC equipment and home appliances are sometimes considered e-waste too, so check with your local recycling facility.

How is E-Waste Recycled?
First, the items arrive at a recycling facility, where they are sorted. They are dismantled and broken down into their core components, which are divided up into categories based on what type of item they are and whether they can be re-purposed. Next, finer pieces and particles go through a shaking process using a conveyor belt to further separate them and reduce their size. After the remaining materials are reduced to even smaller particles, any dust is extracted and safely discarded. A magnet is then used to separate the metallic items out; copper, aluminum, and brass can be sold as raw materials or reused for manufacturing new products. After this, the plastic is separated from glass using water, and any re-usable or sellable materials are set aside while the remaining particles are disposed of.

How You Can Help
First, always recycle your e-waste. Never toss an old phone or computer monitor in the trash. Find your closest recycling plant and find out what kind of items they accept. Talk to your mobile service carrier. Many cell phone companies have e-waste recycling and device buyback programs. You can also help by taking take good care of your electronics so they don’t break down as quickly. Install system updates when they come out and use apps like PSafe Total to keep your device running smoothly and securely.