Thursday, June 9, 2011

Blog #4 Wiki

The two wiki pages I thought would be most beneficial to edit would be:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_waste
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_waste_in_the_United_States

The page on electronic waste is very thorough, however some helpful information could be added to the hazards section. Listing what electronics the hazardous material can be found in will increase awareness and show how close we are to these hazards everyday. The health effects of contact with these substances should also be listed so people can see the potential consequences they are putting themselves and others through.

The electronic waste in the United States page I feel has some holes in it. While it lists many local laws and failed national laws, it does not mention how the U.S. failed to sign an international treaty at the Basel Convention. It is important to note America's contribution to international law as well. Also, while it does encourage consumer recycling and take back programs, it does not do a good job of explaining how most of these programs export the waste anyway. Mention of the Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition's rating of approval on e-waste programs would be beneficial so that readers could find effective recycling centers.

There are many pages on Wikipedia that make reference to the issue of e-waste and recycling, and together they probably cover all of the information. Unfortunately right now it is all fragmented. Beefing up the Electronic waste page I think would have the most benefit.