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Researchers say that some raw materials used in making smartphones may run out soon.
A study has found that elements such as gold, copper, silver, lithium /ˈlɪθijəm/, and cobalt are in danger of running out in a few decades. These elements are used in smartphone components, including wiring, batteries, and even display screens.
Depletion threatens these materials because of the rampant disposal of smartphones. According to data, people dispose of around 10 million smartphones on a monthly basis in European countries alone.
Scarcity of the abovementioned materials will affect not only smartphone production in the future. These materials will also be less available for other objects. For example, copper is commonly used in motors, roofs, pipes, and machines. Airplanes, bicycles, and fast trains all use lithium that is mixed with aluminum. In addition, gold is used since ancient times as jewelry and currency. Currently, it is also used in watches, electronic gadgets, and computers. The medical industry also makes use of the metal for tooth fillings and artificial body parts.
In response to the issue, a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) has voiced her suggestion on how to prevent the impending scarcity. According to Catherine Stihler, the problem can be prevented if all nations would step up their recycling efforts. She also said that countries should subscribe to a circular economy.
Under a circular economy, resources are disposed of only after there is absolutely no use for them anymore. This action helps in keeping waste to a minimum. An example is turning plastic waste back into raw materials so that they can be made into new plastic once again.