The population's participation in the reverse logistics of electronic and electrical equipment and appliances is of utmost importance to ensure an environmentally appropriate final disposal of these wastes. So important that the legislation provides for the consumer's participation within the shared responsibility for the product's life cycle.
The implementation of this process occurs through collection points for this type of waste, preventing disposal in regular trash or conventional selective collection. For reverse logistics to be effective, it is essential that the population follows some guidelines when disposing of these products, such as separating electronic equipment from other types of waste, ensuring they are turned off and clean, and disposing of them whole whenever possible.
It is recommended to delete personal data contained on devices before disposal, remembering that it is not possible to recover the products after disposal. The proper disposal of electronic and household appliances helps prevent water and soil contamination, as many of these products contain toxic components such as mercury and cadmium. Furthermore, air pollution is avoided, especially in the case of devices that contain refrigerant gases, such as refrigerators and air conditioners, which, when leaked, can harm the ozone layer.
It is important to emphasize that the population has no cost to carry out proper disposal, as reverse logistics is funded by manufacturers and importers. By disposing of it properly, the consumer contributes to environmental preservation and also gains more space at home by getting rid of obsolete or unused equipment.
Awareness of reverse logistics and active participation of the population should not be limited only to schools but should extend to companies and all households. With the frequent acquisition of new technological products, it is essential that the proper disposal of old equipment becomes a habit, aiming not only for individual benefit but also for collective and environmental well-being.
By participating in reverse logistics, the population contributes to the reuse of materials and components of these devices in the manufacturing of new products, promoting the circular economy and reducing the need for natural resource extraction. In this way, everyone benefits: the environment, companies, and society itself, which gains from a more sustainable and responsible production cycle.
