Consumerism - what does it really mean?

Electronics have become an integral part of our everyday lives, and to a large extent I think we don't realize or better yet evaluate the the dependence we have on them.  From GPS units in our vehicles to a laptop for everyone in the family, kindles, tablets, smart phones, televisions, kitchen appliances, stereo systems and everything in between.  We have a fascination and sometimes obsession with the latest and greatest products.  Having worked for a government agency that purchased electronic monitoring devices frequently to meet data collections needs, then disposed of them as newer, better technologies arrived, I began to ask myself, what are the implications of these electronic monitoring devices on other parts of the world?  I began to question how natural resource monitoring in America was negatively impacting natural resources and human health in other parts of the world.  These products are mined, manufactured and eventually disposed of somewhere, but where and how does that happen?  Furthermore, as I was involved with purchasing of these electronic devices, I wondered why those externalities are not considered in the cost/benefit analysis process? My work situation was really just the tip of the iceberg, and I still have yet to invest the time and energy into fully researching these topics, as it's not that easy to uncover these dirty little secrets. More recently I have tried to heighten my awareness of the presence of technology in our everyday lives and the reality of the fate of these devices.  The reality is about what you'd expect, disturbing!  For a glimpse into some of the pressing global issues, check out David Elliot Cohen's book What Matters.

Photo: David Elliot Cohen from his book What Matters; 3-year old girl working at a battery recycling shop

This book spans more than electronic waste,  but it's eye opening on a much grander scale.  I almost cried as I sat in a book store perusing the images and stories.  I had no idea much of this was going on in our world.  How have I not been outraged all this time?  How have these issues not influence how and what I purchase and dispose of?

The developing world is exploited on our behalf.  Why shouldn't we unload our environmental burdens on the poor of the world?  I certainly don't want to see my waste piling up in my backyard!  What if that were the case?  Would we reconsider our purchases and our disposal?  I'm willing to guess we would rapidly find better alternatives.  I came across this PBS video profiling an e-waste dumping site in Ghana.  It's horrifying.  PBS has several informative links you can access from the above link delving into these topics as well as tips on how best to recycle electronics.  What can we do in our everyday lives?

1. Rethink our purchases.  Evaluate the goods we really need and research how the purchase of these goods may influence the world.
2. Research products you desire to purchase once you have decided that you do intend to purchase.  Of course items manufactured in China are cheaper, and most of us are on a tight budget, but what does that buying power really mean?  Are you willing to support such factories to save a few dollars?
3. Reduce consumption.  Maybe this means updating or repairing electronics you currently have instead of throwing what you have for the newest model.  
4. Buy refurbished or used products instead of new ones.
5. Proper disposal.  This doesn't mean, as I'm finding out, you dump your electronics at any place that states they recycle or donate electronics.  Dig deep and make informed decisions.  This guide on the PBS site offers some useful links to informed disposal.

Photo: Tony Law from Wired Magazine; industrial factory in China

It's easy to negate these externalities of our consumeristic behavior as they aren't right in front of us. We don't see the repercussions on a daily basis, instead we see the bright colors and clean store fronts inviting us to keep up with the zeitgeist of technology. Sometimes we simply need a reminder of the consequences of our actions to help guide us down the path of least harm.  If this post positively influences the decisions of even one person, I think it's worthwhile.  I know this investigation, which has only just begun for me, will definitely influence my own decision making.