A recycled laptop's journey, Part 1: Exporting toxic waste

While they are instrumental in disseminating information and raising environmental consciousness, our dependence on digital electronics is also putting ever greater strains on us and our environment.

"Manufacturing a desktop computer and 17-inch CRT monitor uses at least 240 kg (530 lbs) of fossil fuels, 22 kg (50 lbs) of chemicals and 1,500 kg (3,330 lbs) of water -- a total of 1.8 tons (1.9 English tons) of materials -- roughly the weight of a sports utility vehicle or a rhinoceros," according to Computers and the Environment, a 2004 book released by United Nations University (UNU).

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