Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation From Exact Extract:
Electronic devices often contain toxic or hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and certain flame retardants. These substances can create significant environmental and regulatory challenges, especially at the end of the product’s life cycle. A major challenge for organizations is meeting disposal and recycling rules designed to prevent environmental contamination and health risks.
Key aspects include:
Complying with regulations for safe disposal and recycling of electronic waste (e-waste).
Ensuring proper handling, collection, and processing so hazardous materials do not enter landfills, water, or air.
Managing relationships with certified recyclers and adhering to government and industry standards.
Documenting and verifying compliance for audits and reporting.
Why the other options are incorrect:
A. Maintaining employee safety during useWhile workplace safety is important, typical use of electronics (like computers or phones) does not generally expose employees directly to toxic materials. The main risk occurs during manufacturing, dismantling, or disposal, not normal office use.
B. Explaining performance limits to end usersPerformance limits relate to technical capability (speed, battery life, etc.) and are not directly caused by toxic materials in electronics.
D. Reducing environmental certification costsToxic materials usually increase complexity and cost for compliance and certification; they are not a source of cost reduction.
Therefore, the most accurate challenge associated with toxic materials in electronics is Option C: Meeting disposal and recycling rules, which directly reflects environmental and regulatory responsibilities.
[Reference:Information Technology Management Study Guide – Sustainability in IT, E-Waste Management, and Environmental Compliance (WGU ITM Curriculum)., , , ]
