Current Scenario of E-Waste Management in India: A Mini Review

Abstract

E-waste consists of hazardous electrical and electronic equipment. As large number of populations is moving towards urban areas in order to get jobs and for their development, the use of technologies is also increasing. Due to which their dependency on technology is continuously increasing and to fulfil their needs production of electronic equipment is increasing. One of the most important sectors in the world is the electronics industry. It has risen steadily in recent decades, creating a large number of jobs, promoting technological advancement while also fuelling a large amount of electronic trash generation [1]. This increment in usage of electrical equipment has increased the production of E-Waste. Its toxic emissions mingle with virgin soil and air, inflicting direct and indirect harm to the entire biota. Direct effects include the release of acids, poisonous compounds such as heavy metals, and carcinogenic chemicals, as well as indirect effects such as heavy metal biomagnification. The human health risks associated with incorrect e-waste disposal and processing have been demonstrated to be chronic and even fatal. These health risks concern not only the workers directly involved in scavenging and crude processing of e-waste, but also the general public who come into touch with e-waste and its harmful components in the environment [2]. All over the world, a total of 50 million tons of e-waste is generated in which India contributes approximately 2 million tons. According to Global e-waste monitor, India is at 3rd position in the list of highest volume e-waste generating countries. China accounts for the majority of worldwide e-waste output (19%), with the United States coming in second. In 2019, only 14 countries accounted for more than 65 percent of worldwide e-waste output [3]. It becomes evident that there is a significant gap in this industry between developed and developing countries. While value recovery is carried out in centralised facilities using advanced technologies in a highly regulated industrial environment in the developed world, it is carried out in a largely unregulated artisanal industry using simplistic, labour-intensive, and environmentally hazardous methods in the developing world. [4]. Today, many developing countries are facing huge challenges in e-waste management due to a lack of proper infrastructure however, the scenario is gradually improving. Due to this imbalance in waste management, informal recycling can be easily seen in developing countries. This review paper represents the current scenario of E-Waste in India. It includes recent management status data, challenges faced by the government in management. As per our findings, open dumping and informal e-waste recycling systems should be replaced with the latest technological innovations and environmental practises, as well as frequent monitoring and awareness campaigns for workers and neighbours. [5]. some suggestions are also mentioned below.