The contemporary economy produces increasing masses of “e-waste” – computer monitors,processors, cell phones, televisions, and other goods that, while still functional, are thrownaway or occasionally recycled. These typically become hazards, as they contain mercuryand other heavy metals that enter waterways and the ecosystem. A political economyapproach to this issue would insist that such planned obsolescence of “e-waste” is not anincidental or accidental product of the system, but instead an essential one. Explain whythis might be so. What are the tendencies of capital that make such waste necessary? Howis surplus produced so that waste is inevitable? What environmental justice issues mightarise in the disposal and recycling of these goods?

Applications and Investigations in Earth Science (9th Edition)
9th Edition
ISBN:9780134746241
Author:Edward J. Tarbuck, Frederick K. Lutgens, Dennis G. Tasa
Publisher:Edward J. Tarbuck, Frederick K. Lutgens, Dennis G. Tasa
Chapter1: The Study Of Minerals
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The contemporary economy produces increasing masses of “e-waste” – computer monitors,
processors, cell phones, televisions, and other goods that, while still functional, are thrown
away or occasionally recycled. These typically become hazards, as they contain mercury
and other heavy metals that enter waterways and the ecosystem. A political economy
approach to this issue would insist that such planned obsolescence of “e-waste” is not an
incidental or accidental product of the system, but instead an essential one. Explain why
this might be so. What are the tendencies of capital that make such waste necessary? How
is surplus produced so that waste is inevitable? What environmental justice issues might
arise in the disposal and recycling of these goods?

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