31-December-2024-Special-Article

E-WASTE MANAGEMENT IN INDIA

Electronic waste (e-waste) refers to discarded electrical and electronic devices, such as household appliances and office equipment, that are no longer functional or needed. This waste contains harmful chemicals and metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium, which pose environmental and health risks. As the use of electronic devices grows, managing e-waste has become a significant challenge in India and globally.

Current Status of E-Waste in India

Rising E-Waste Generation

• India’s e-waste generation has grown by 54% in the past five years.
• It increased from 01 million metric tonnes (MT) in 2019-20 to 1.751 million MT in 2023-24.

Untreated E-Waste

• About 57% of e-waste (990,000 MT) remains untreated annually.

Regional Contribution

• 65 cities account for more than 60% of the total e-waste generated.
• 10 states are responsible for 70% of India’s e-waste production.

Recycling Trends

• Recycling rates have improved from 22% in 2019-20 to 43% in 2023-24, but gaps remain.
• Informal sectors dominate e-waste processing, often without adequate safeguards.

Global Context

• India ranks as the third-largest e-waste generator, following China and the USA.
• Globally, 6 MT of e-waste was generated in 2019, according to UN data.

E-Waste (Management) Rules

E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022

• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Producers must meet annual recycling targets through registered recyclers.
• EPR Certificates: Ensure accountability for recycled products.
• Expanded Coverage: From 21 items earlier, now 106 Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE) items are covered.
• Bulk Consumer Integration: Public offices must manage e-waste via registered recyclers.

Second Amendment Rules, 2023

• Focuses on safe and sustainable management of refrigerants in the refrigeration and air-conditioning sectors.

Amendment Rules, 2024

• Introduced a trading platform for EPR certificates, with price ranges set by the Central Pollution Control Board.

National and International Efforts

International Conventions

• Basel Convention (1989): Regulates transboundary movements of hazardous waste.
• Bamako Convention (1991): Prohibits hazardous waste imports into Africa.
• Minamata Convention (2013): Addresses mercury emissions; India ratified it in 2018.
• Stockholm Convention (2001): Focuses on persistent organic pollutants (POPs); India is a signatory.

National Frameworks

• E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022: Emphasizes recycling and EPR.
• Hazardous Wastes Rules, 2016: Regulates hazardous and transboundary waste movement.
• National Action Plan for Chemical and Waste Management: Aligns with international conventions.

Common E-Waste Disposal Methods

Landfilling

• E-waste is buried in pits sealed with earth layers, but toxic chemicals can leach into soil and groundwater.

Incineration

• Controlled burning of e-waste at high temperatures reduces waste volume but may release harmful gases.

Recycling

• Dismantles e-waste to recover valuable materials while safely managing toxic components.
• Examples include recycling of circuit boards, wires, and mobile phones.

Challenges in E-Waste Management

• Informal Recycling Practices: Informal sectors dominate e-waste recycling, using unsafe methods like burning and acid leaching, causing environmental harm.
• Infrastructure Deficits: Limited collection points and recycling facilities lead to improper disposal, contaminating soil and water.
• Awareness Gaps: Many people lack knowledge about safe e-waste disposal methods. Improper disposal in regular trash or charity donations worsens the issue.
• Environmental Impact: Hazardous chemicals from e-waste pollute soil, air, and water, affecting ecosystems and human health.

Strategies for Effective E-Waste Management

Formalizing the Informal Sector

• Train informal workers in safe e-waste handling.
• Examples: China integrates informal recyclers through training and financial support.

Technological Innovations

• Develop advanced recycling technologies and AI-based systems for tracking e-waste.
• Promote “right to repair” policies to extend product lifespans.

Learning from Global Models

• EU: Implements strict recycling targets and eco-design incentives (e.g., WEEE Directive).
• Japan: Introduced an e-waste recycling fee to support initiatives (e.g., HARL).

Promoting Refurbishment and Reuse

• Incentivize refurbishment programs to extend the life of used electronics.
• Strengthen second-hand markets for affordable electronics.

Raising Public Awareness

• Launch campaigns to educate the public on e-waste hazards and disposal methods.
• Collaborate with NGOs and think tanks for outreach programs.

Global Collaborations

• Partner with international organizations like the ITU for advanced recycling technologies.

Conclusion

E-waste management is a critical issue that requires a multi-pronged approach involving robust policies, technological advancements, public awareness, and international cooperation. With the growing volume of e-waste, addressing gaps in recycling, formalizing informal sectors, and adopting global best practices can significantly mitigate environmental and health risks.

Mains Question:

1. “Discuss the challenges and opportunities in e-waste management in India, highlighting the role of policies, technology, and public awareness in ensuring sustainable practices.” (1150 WORDS)