A recent study conducted by the United Nations University shows that the amount of e-waste in Asia has risen 63 percent between 2010 and 2015 across 12 countries. Let’s take a look at photos taken at the Tokyo Eco Recycle company in Tokyo. /CFP Photo

According to the five-year study, higher incomes and more affordable prices have led to an increasing demand for electronic goods in Asia, like smartphones, computers, TVs, refrigerators and other gadgets. The photo shows a physically destroyed hard disk drive at the Tokyo Eco Recycle company. /CFP Photo

Discarded washing machines and air conditioner units piled high at the Tokyo Eco Recycle company. /CFP Photo

Practices like illegal dumping or the open burning of old electronics causes severe environmental and health problems, and improved recycling and disposal methods are needed. This is an overview of the recycling lines of washing machines and air conditioner units at the Tokyo Eco Recycle company. /CFP Photo