E-waste Management in India

December 31, 2020

CHALLENGES AND AGENDA

The use of electrical and electronic equipment is witnessing an explosive growth. So is e-waste. The UN has even termed this phenomenon a ‘tsunami’ of e-waste. The developed world turns the tide in its favour by redirecting the tsunami towards the developing world.

While e-waste is a problem, it can easily be moulded into a solution. It is the most valuable of wastes, as it contains many rare and precious metals and materials.

How can better regulation and practices, clearer and more comprehensive data, and intelligent synergy between the formal and informal sectors, promote better management and recycling of e-waste, prevent its dumping in developing countries (like India), protect e-waste handlers from the harmful effects of the dangerous chemicals it contains, and fuel a circular economy? This report contemplates these questions.