Are circuit boards a major source of global e-waste?

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Not sure
• D. They are a major source for many e-waste streams

Answer: (B)

Circuit boards' contribution to e-waste across multiple streams is the key idea here. They are found in almost every electronic device—phones, laptops, TVs, appliances—and when those devices are discarded, the boards enter several e-waste streams. They contain hazardous substances as well as recoverable metals, so handling them properly is important for environmental safety and resource recovery. Because of their widespread presence and the variety of products they’re part of, circuit boards are a major source of global e-waste. That makes the statement describing them as a major source for many e-waste streams the accurate one. The other options either downplay their prevalence or remain too vague to capture their actual role.