As we increasingly turn toward technology, electronic waste (e-waste) rises up as a considerable downside.
On the positive side, there are efforts to help e-waste buildup, like Japan’s endeavor to make the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic medals out of discarded and obsolete electronics. However, according to Statista, “E-waste is still increasing over time, both in absolute numbers and per capita.”
When talking in terms of annual e-waste overall, Statista reports China and the U.S. are the top offenders. But breaking the numbers down to how much e-waste is generated per person, the data from the Global E-Waste Monitor cited in a recent OECD report tells a different story.
Norway tops the list for e-waste volume generated per inhabitant at 28.5 kg (63 lb). The U.K. and Denmark made a tight race for second and third, with each person contributing 24.9 kg (54.8 lb) and 24.8 kg (54.6 lb) of electronic trash, respectively.
The U.S. posted 19.4 kg (42.7 lb) per person, while China was near the bottom of the list at 5.2 kg (11.4 lb).
To see the rest of the results, check out the Statista infographic below.
