As we use more and more technology, we also discard more and more technology. This is the way that consumerism and the desire for newer and better products works. While we have learned to recycle our old cell phones and computers, we may underestimate the consequences of this rapid accumulation of high tech garbage.
This evening’s edition of 60 minutes featured a story on the breakdown of computer junk in Guiyu, China. The expose traced the shipment of cast-off hardware from the US to China and the breakdown of this equipment to collect valuable metals by Chinese laborers using primitive and dangerous methods. While the practice is against both US and Chinese laws, the money to be made still encourages the exploitation of desperate people.
One thing I recall from visiting China some years ago was that the rapid economic advances were largely built on the labor of farmers moving to the cities for a better way of life for family and self. One of the pictures I took in a factory making merchandise for tourists is included below. The hours and conditions were typically far different from our experiences, but I assume tolerated because the alternatives were worse. Perhaps the message here is that we understand what is happening and urge our representatives to support policies that prevent exploitation.
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