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Electronics

The plastic casings of many gadgets, such as computers and mobile phones, have a long history of containing brominates fire retardants, persistent chemicals that can accumulate in the body or form even more harmful dioxins if not disposed of correctly. Similarly, the electronics inside these devices can play host to a range of other nasty chemicals, such as lead, hexavalent chromium, cadmium and mercury.

But for some environmentalists it’s not enough. For example, Greenpeace is pushing for restrictions to go further by prohibiting the use of these chemicals not just in the final product but also in the manufacturing processes used to make it. As part of its campaign, Greenpeace has created a ranking scheme naming and shaming the top electronics manufacturers. This is based on how companies are phasing out the use of harmful chemicals and the kinds of recycling services they are offering customers wishing to take back their old devices when they buy a new one - see: http://www.greenpeace.org/international/news/green-electronics-guide-ewaste250806.

But if you really want to make a difference, you may want to reconsider upgrading your computer or mobile phone entirely and instead hang on to your existing one for another year. It could make all the difference.