Various electronic devices contain dangerous heavy metals such as silver, barium, mercury, chromium and cadmium. Cadmium is found in corrosion resistant alloys, light sensitive alloys and nickel-cadmium batteries. If not properly handled, cadmium can cause severe lung damage as well as kidney problems. Substances found in large quantities include fibreglass, epoxy resins, fibreglass, aluminium and iron. Such items may not have many direct negative effects on human health but are potential environment pollutants. Even in developed countries such as Canada, disposal and recycling of e-waste may expose workers and communities to significant health risks. However, handling it under controlled environments
Alnor electronic recycling program helps citizens dispose of their unwanted equipment easily and conveniently. They organize pick-ups through a comprehensive collection program after which they take them to the Mississauga electronics recycling centre. Alnor organizes two recycling methods; special collection events and permanent drop-off centres. All collected equipment is remanufactured through dismantling, assembling and sorting before recycling. During the sort out process, the components are categorized according to their functionality and make. So of the components are refurbished for continued use. Circuit boards, plastics and metals are reused to form new electronic parts.