UNBOXING REALITY

A collage of electronics and nature

Topic:

E-waste, or electronic waste, refers to discarded electrical and electronic devices — from phones and laptops to chargers and earbuds — that are no longer wanted or used. As technology continues to evolve rapidly, so does the amount of waste it leaves behind.

One of the biggest contributors to this growing issue is the smart phone industry, where constant product launches and social pressure to “upgrade” push consumers to replace perfectly functional devices every year or two. This cycle fuels overproduction, shortens product lifespans, and accelerates the depletion of valuable resources like rare metals. While recycling is often promoted as the solution, the truth is that only a small fraction of materials from discarded electronics are ever recovered. The rest ends up in landfills or informal recycling operations, releasing toxic chemicals that harm both people and the planet. The challenge lies not just in managing waste — but in rethinking consumption. Extending the life of our devices, repairing instead of replacing, and resisting the illusion of “sustainable trade-ins” are key steps toward breaking this cycle.