What are the negative consequences of improper disposal of electronic waste?

1) Increased probability of hazardous chemical contamination.

2) Air, water, and soil pollution.

3) Mortality in both terrestrial and aquatic organisms.

4) Development of diseases in humans.

Explanation:

The improper disposal of electronic waste can have detrimental consequences for the environment and, as a result, to all living beings including humans.

If electronic waste is thrown away in an open area, it warms up and releases hazardous chemicals that are detrimental for the health of living beings. This occurs because electronic objects contain toxic chemicals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, amongst others.

These chemicals will eventually enter both soil and water, harming thousands to millions of terrestrial and aquatic organisms. Moreover, these chemicals will enter the food chain and, as humans consume these affected organisms, we are also affected in numerous ways. For example, ingesting these chemicals could cause reproductive issues, damage to both the nervous and digestive systems, the development of cancer, etc.