Improper handling electronics that contain heavy metals can lead to contamination of soil, ground water, rivers and ocean, and once released into the environment they stick around a very long time. Exposure to heavy metals can cause serious health conditions such as: cancers, neurological disorders, organ damage and dealth.
Brominated Flame Retardants (BFRs) are chemicals used to inhibit ignition and slow the combustion rate. However, when these chemicals enter the environment they do not degrade and they enter the food chain. BRFs are fat soluble and bioaccumlate (build up in fish, animals and humans), and over time lead to health issues such as neurological disorders and endocrine system disruptions (hormones, thyroid etc..).
