e-waste

India wants to address its mountain of mounting e-waste with new rules that will, among other things, require manufacturers to pay significantly more for re-cycling electronic goods in that country. Of course, global companies like Samsung, Daikin and Hitachi say it is way too costly. What a surprise. This illustrates, once again, that you cannot rely on business to self-regulate. Self-regulation will lead consumers back to the dark ages of consumerism. Next thing you know, lead will be used in paint again and asbestos, which is still immorally used in parts of the world, will be an element in more products again. It’s all about profit.

I reiterate that I have no problem with people and companies making “honest” profits, but not profits with a high human cost.