Awareness of the impacts of our purchase choices on land and peoples far away has slowly been spreading. Yet still many don't know about the worst impact of all: the electronics industry. Metals essential to cell phones, computers, video game systems, digital phones, and other techno gadgets are being extracted from the Congo by armed groups actively engaged in a genocide of huge proportions (over 5 million killed.) This is a fact that many of us ignore as we use electronic tools to promote positive change in the world.
How can we reconcile our mission of spreading broadband and computer literacy, with the consequences for the Congolese and the environment? Fortunately there is finally some movement on this front and some positive ways to move forward.
There is conflict-free legislation in the house.
People are calling on electronics producers to make conflict free products available.
Schools and organizations are committing to used or conflict-free products.
An exciting recycling/re-use option for cell phones is available.
Check out this link to take action and find out more:
http://www.raisehopeforcongo.org/special-page/take-action-congo
I for one think that the SMBI should commit to conflict-free options for out technology and actively promote them for subscribers as well.