Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Electronic waste (e-waste), encompassing discarded electrical or electronic devices, is a rapidly growing environmental and public health concern globally, and particularly in developing nations like India. Driven by increasing consumption and rapid technological obsolescence, the volume of e-waste generated is escalating at an alarming rate. According to the Global E-waste Monitor 2020, a record 53.6 million metric tonnes of e-waste was generated worldwide in 2019, with only 17.4% being formally collected and recycled. India is the third-largest producer of e-waste, posing significant challenges to sustainable waste management.
Understanding E-waste
E-waste comprises a diverse range of discarded items, including computers, mobile phones, televisions, refrigerators, and other electronic appliances. It contains both valuable recoverable materials like gold, silver, and copper, as well as hazardous substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and brominated flame retardants.
Sources and Growth of E-waste
- Consumer Electronics: Rapid innovation and shorter product lifecycles drive frequent upgrades, leading to increased e-waste.
- Industrial Waste: Manufacturing processes and quality control generate significant e-waste.
- Import of E-waste: Illegal shipments of e-waste from developed countries to developing nations exacerbate the problem.
India’s e-waste generation has seen a substantial increase. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), India generated 1.01 million tonnes of e-waste in 2019, a 31% increase from 2017. This growth is linked to rising disposable incomes, increased digitalization, and a lack of effective collection and recycling infrastructure.
Environmental and Health Impacts
- Environmental Pollution: Improper disposal of e-waste contaminates soil, water, and air with hazardous substances. Leaching of heavy metals into groundwater poses a serious threat to ecosystems and human health.
- Health Risks: Exposure to e-waste toxins can cause neurological damage, respiratory problems, kidney damage, and cancer, particularly among informal sector workers involved in dismantling and recycling.
- Resource Depletion: Lack of proper recycling leads to the loss of valuable materials that could be recovered and reused.
Regulatory Framework and Challenges in India
India has implemented the E-waste (Management) Rules, 2016, which mandate Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). EPR places the responsibility for the collection, recycling, and disposal of e-waste on the producers of electronic equipment.
| Regulation | Key Provisions | Challenges |
|---|---|---|
| E-waste (Management) Rules, 2016 | EPR, Collection targets for producers, Registration of recyclers, Restriction of hazardous substances | Low awareness among consumers, Inadequate collection infrastructure, Informal recycling sector dominance, Lack of effective enforcement. |
Despite the regulations, several challenges remain. The informal sector continues to dominate e-waste recycling, often employing unsafe practices. Collection rates are low, and enforcement of EPR provisions is weak. The CPCB estimates that only about 20% of e-waste is formally recycled in India.
Strategies for Sustainable E-waste Management
- Strengthening EPR Implementation: Improving monitoring and enforcement of EPR obligations.
- Promoting Formal Recycling: Incentivizing the establishment of more formal recycling facilities.
- Raising Awareness: Educating consumers about the hazards of e-waste and the importance of responsible disposal.
- Developing Collection Networks: Establishing convenient collection points and take-back programs.
- Investing in Research and Development: Developing innovative and environmentally sound recycling technologies.
Conclusion
The escalating e-waste problem demands urgent and concerted action. While India has made progress in establishing a regulatory framework, effective implementation, coupled with increased awareness and investment in sustainable recycling infrastructure, is crucial. A shift towards a circular economy model, emphasizing product durability, repairability, and recyclability, is essential to mitigate the environmental and health risks associated with e-waste and unlock the economic potential of valuable resources contained within it.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.