Nanoco reported the results of a survey conducted in the US, the UK and Germany which showed a lack of awareness about the use of cadmium in electronics. Consumers surveyed seem to be unaware that governments are sanctioning the use of cadmium when suitable alternatives already exist and dominate the television and monitor market. Three-quarters of consumers surveyed in each country rejected cadmium-based products and say they would be willing to purchase safer electronics based on the fact that they did not contain cadmium.
German consumers, in particular, put safety first, with 60% of Germans giving a ‘resounding’ no to cadmium-based products – even if a manufacturer claims the products are safe.
The survey identified that general electronic waste recycling is well developed and understood in Germany. This is not the same for all countries surveyed and even for Germany, it is not clear if cadmium specifically is controlled.
