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death by design – the hidden side of electronics industry

Death by Design is a 2016 documentary that explores the dark side of the electronics industry, highlighting the environmental and human costs associated with the production of consumer electronics. The documentary follows the lifecycle of electronic devices — revealing how toxic materials are used and discarded — leading to severe health issues for workers and devastating impacts on ecosystems. 

Emphasizing the plight of workers in China’s manufacturing sector, it shows the hazardous conditions and the consequences of e-waste pollution in other developing countries too, where multinational giants produce their electronics. There are some eye-openers in the documentary, such as:

  • Rapid E-Waste Accumulation: The global production of e-waste is skyrocketing, leading to severe disposal challenges and environmental degradation.

  • Toxic Leaching: Improper disposal of e-waste results in toxic substances leaching into soil and groundwater, contaminating ecosystems and posing serious health risks to communities.

  • Air Pollution: Informal recycling methods often involve burning e-waste, releasing hazardous chemicals into the atmosphere that contribute to air pollution, and respiratory issues among nearby populations.

  • Biodiversity Threats: The pollution from e-waste affects biodiversity, harming wildlife and disrupting ecosystems as toxins accumulate in food chains.

  • Climate Change Contribution: E-waste contributes to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions during both its production and improper disposal processes, exacerbating global warming concerns.
The natural course of the clean industry should be that companies should respect nature and prioritize environmental sustainability over short-term monetary profits for several reasons. First, the degradation of natural ecosystems directly threatens human health and livelihoods, as seen in the documentary. By adopting sustainable practices, businesses can mitigate risks associated with resource scarcity and regulatory pressures. Furthermore, embracing a nature-positive approach can enhance brand reputation and customer loyalty, as consumers increasingly favor environmentally responsible companies. Ultimately, prioritizing the environment not only fosters long-term viability for businesses but also contributes to global efforts to combat climate change, and preserve biodiversity. On top of that, a healthier planet for future generations can be ensured by keeping in mind the following agendas, according to this documentary:
  • Awareness of Toxicity: The documentary highlights the toxic materials present in electronics, such as lead and mercury, which can have devastating effects on both human health and the environment when improperly disposed of.

  • Impact of Manufacturing: It emphasizes the environmental cost of manufacturing electronics, including significant carbon emissions and resource depletion, urging viewers to consider the lifecycle of their devices.

  • Call for Responsible Disposal: The documentary advocates for responsible e-waste disposal practices, promoting recycling and proper management to minimize environmental harm.

  • Health Risks: The documentary discusses the health risks faced by workers in e-waste recycling facilities, particularly in developing countries, stressing the need for safer working conditions and environmental protections.

  • Consumer Responsibility: It encourages consumers to be more mindful of their electronic consumption habits and to support sustainable practices within the tech industry.

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