Issue link: https://resources.pcb.cadence.com/i/1516350
E-WASTE ON WATERWAYS The time it takes for a waterway polluted by e-waste to recover depends on a number of factors, including the type and amount of e-waste, the size and flow of the waterway, and the surrounding environment. In general, it can take many years for a waterway to recover from e-waste pollution. Some of the factors that can affect the recovery time of a waterway include: • Type and Amount of E-Waste – The type and amount of e-waste dumped into a waterway can significantly impact the recovery time. For example, heavy metals, such as lead and mercury, can take hundreds of years to break down. • Size and Flow of the Waterway – The size and flow of a waterway can also affect the recovery time. Larger waterways with faster currents can dilute e-waste more quickly, making it easier for the environment to recover. • Surrounding Environment – The surrounding environment can also affect the recovery time of a waterway. For example, waterways located in areas with high levels of rainfall or snowfall may be more susceptible to erosion, making it more difficult for the environment to recover from e-waste pollution. In most cases, it is impossible to think abstractly about such large issues as e-waste. When we talk about PSpice's ability to help, we think about the ability to reduce unused components and improve recyclability as well as the lifecycle of the electronics you are currently designing. This is all to prevent instances similar to those in the following graphic (toxic sites directly resulting from e-waste, whether from pollution and run-off, or literal systems and devices getting left to rot and pile up). These are just a few examples of the many toxic sites polluted by e-waste around the world. The recovery of these sites will take many years, and it is important to take steps to prevent future pollution.