HEADLINES

• E-Waste and the Standard That Loves It
• Do the Math
• Internal Auditing Improves Risk Management
• Quality Health Care Conference
• Why New Systems Fail: Theory and Practice Collide
• U.S.-India Form Alliance on Standards

E-Waste and the Standard That Loves It

Electronic waste, or e-waste, is considered the fastest-growing component of the municipal waste stream worldwide. Unfortunately, those discarded computers, cell phones, and televisions, among other items, contain hazardous materials such as mercury, chromium, lead, and cadmium, to name a few. These chemicals not only have an enormous environmental effect, but also cause physical problems such as brain damage, kidney disease, reproductive disorders, and cancers. Growing legislation and standards surrounding e-waste disposal globally touch on issues such as illegal dumping, and the effect that recycling these hazardous materials has on the poor in countries such as Ghana, China, and India.

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