E – WASTE MANAGEMENT

E-Waste
• E-waste is the fastest-growing waste stream in the world, posing a
significant threat to human health and the environment.
• This presentation will explore the definition, types, hazardous
properties, and global and Indian scenarios of e-waste.
• We will also discuss the growth of the electrical and electronics
industry in India, e-waste generation, composition, and the
occupational, environmental, and health implications of improper e-
waste management.
What is E-Waste?
• E-waste, or electronic waste, is any discarded electrical or electronic
equipment.
• This includes:
• Household appliances (TVs, refrigerators, washing machines)
• Information technology and telecommunications equipment
(computers, mobiles, printers)
• Medical equipment (X-ray machines, ECG machines)
• Other electronic devices (toys, tools, etc.)
Types of E-Waste
Hazardous Properties of E-Waste
• E-waste contains a variety of hazardous substances that can pose a
threat to human health and the environment if not handled properly.
• Some of the most common hazardous substances found in e-waste
include:
• Lead: Damages the nervous system, especially in children.
• Mercury: Affects brain development, kidneys, and the nervous system.
• Arsenic: Carcinogenic, damages skin, lungs, and bladder.
• Cadmium: Damages kidneys and bones.
• Flame retardants: Some flame retardants are endocrine disruptors and can
interfere with hormonal function.
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): Releases dioxins when burned.
Hazardous Properties of E-Waste
Global Scenario of E-Waste
• E-waste is the fastest-growing waste stream in the world, with an
estimated 53.6 million tonnes generated in 2019.
• Only 17.4% of e-waste is formally collected and recycled.
• The remaining 82.6% is either disposed of in landfills, incinerated, or
illegally dumped.
• This improper disposal of e-waste has significant negative impacts on
human health and the environment.
Indian Scenario:
• E-waste generation growing at 10% annually.
• Major contributors: IT sector, urban households.
• Informal sector dominates recycling, using primitive and hazardous
methods.
• Regulations exist (E-waste Management Rules, 2016), but
implementation challenges remain.
Growth of Electronics Industry in India:
• Booming sector, driven by economic growth and digitalization.
• Increased consumption leads to more e-waste generation.

E-waste Generation in India:

• Estimated at 3 million tonnes annually.
• Top 10 states contribute 70%.
• Mumbai is the top city generator.
Composition of E-waste:
• Iron and steel (50%)
• Plastics (21%)
• Non-ferrous metals (13%)
• Hazardous substances (lead, mercury, etc.)

Hazardous Substances:
• Lead: Damages nervous system, especially in children.
• Mercury: Affects brain development, kidneys, and nervous system.
• Arsenic: Carcinogenic, damages skin, lungs, and bladder.
• Cadmium: Damages kidneys and bones.
Occupational, Environmental, and Health
Implications:
• Workers in informal sector exposed to toxins through inhalation,
ingestion, and skin contact.
• Air and water pollution from burning and improper disposal.
• Soil contamination
from leaching of heavy metals.
• Health risks for communities
living near e-waste dumpsites.
Additional Notes:
• Extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes encourage
manufacturers to take back and recycle e-waste.
• Formal recycling infrastructure needs to be expanded in India.
• Public awareness about responsible e-waste disposal is crucial.