State of E-Waste in India

E-waste in India is a rapidly growing problem, exacerbated by the increasing usage of electronic and electrical devices across the country. The volume of e-waste generation has surged in recent years, and the management of this waste remains a significant challenge. Here's an overview of the state of e-waste in India:

Volume Growth

• E-waste Generation: India’s e-waste generation has risen by 72.54% over five years. From 1.01 million metric tonnes (MT) in 2019-20, it is expected to reach 1.751 million MT in 2023-24.

• Untreated E-Waste: Approximately 57% of the generated e-waste (about 990,000 MT) remains untreated annually, indicating a large gap in proper waste management.

• Regional Distribution: 65 cities in India contribute to over 60% of the total e-waste generated, and 10 states account for 70% of the total e-waste.

Recycling Gaps

• Recycling Rate: Only 43% of e-waste was recycled in 2023-24, a slight improvement from 22% in 2019-20. However, informal sectors still dominate e-waste recycling, often using harmful practices without environmental safeguards.

India’s Global Ranking

• Global Context: India ranks as the third-largest e-waste generator globally, after China and the United States.

Toxicity of E-Waste

E-waste contains harmful substances such as lead, cadmium, mercury, and nickel, which pose significant risks to both human health and the environment.

E-Waste (Management) Rules in India

India has implemented specific regulations to address the growing e-waste crisis:

E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022

• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Producers are mandated to ensure proper recycling and waste disposal through registered recyclers. EPR certificates ensure accountability.

• Expanded Product Coverage: The rules include 106 Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE) items from FY 2023-24, an increase from the earlier 21 items.

• Bulk Consumers: Public institutions and offices are now required to dispose of e-waste through registered recyclers or refurbishers.

• Registered Recyclers: These entities are responsible for e-waste collection and processing.

E-Waste (Management) Amendment Rules, 2023 and 2024

• Refrigerant Management: New rules require safe and sustainable refrigerant management in refrigeration and air-conditioning manufacturing.

• Trading of EPR Certificates: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) may establish a platform for trading EPR certificates, and set pricing ranges for environmental compensation for non-compliance.

National and International Conventions Related to E-Waste Management

International Conventions

1. Basel Convention (1989): Controls the transboundary movement of hazardous waste. India is a signatory.

2. Bamako Convention (1991): Prohibits the import of hazardous waste, including e-waste, into Africa.

3. Minamata Convention on Mercury (2013): India ratified this convention in 2018 to limit mercury emissions.

4. Stockholm Convention (2001): Aims to eliminate or reduce the release of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). India is a party.

National Regulations

1. E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022: Focus on producer responsibility and safe recycling.

2. Hazardous and Other Wastes Rules, 2016: Govern the management of hazardous waste and its transboundary movement.

3. National Action Plan for Chemical and Waste Management: Reflects India’s commitment to international waste management conventions.

Common E-Waste Disposal Methods in India

• Landfilling: E-waste is buried in pits, but the chemicals can leach into the environment, contaminating soil and groundwater.

• Incineration: High-temperature burning of e-waste reduces volume but releases toxic emissions into the air.

• Recycling: Dismantling e-waste to recover valuable materials such as metals and plastics. Safe disposal of toxic components reduces environmental and health risks.

Issues and Challenges in E-Waste Management

1. Informal Recycling: Informal recycling processes, such as burning and acid leaching, release toxic fumes, harming the environment and human health. This sector handles 50-80% of the world’s e-waste.

2. Lack of Infrastructure: Insufficient e-waste collection points and recycling facilities result in improper disposal.

3. Lack of Awareness: Consumers and businesses often lack knowledge on proper disposal methods, contributing to the rise in improper e-waste management.

4. Environmental Effects: Toxic substances in e-waste cause contamination of soil, water, and air, impacting wildlife and human health.

Strategies to Strengthen E-Waste Management in India

1. Integration of Informal Sector: Formalizing informal recycling by offering training and support can improve collection rates and minimize environmental harm.

2. Technological Advancements: Promote research in recycling technologies, including AI and IoT-based solutions for tracking and improving collection processes.

3. Global Practices:

   • EU: The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive emphasizes producer responsibility and recycling targets.

   • Japan: The Home Appliance Recycling Law (HARL) promotes EPR and supports recycling initiatives through a nationwide fee system.

4. Refurbishing and Reuse Programs: Encourage refurbishing and resale of used electronics to extend their lifecycle and reduce e-waste.

5. Public Awareness: Launch education campaigns to raise awareness on the dangers of e-waste and the proper disposal and recycling methods.

6. Collaboration with International Bodies: India can collaborate with organizations like the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to enhance recycling technologies and practices.

Conclusion

E-waste management in India is an urgent issue due to the rapid increase in electronic waste generation and the lack of sufficient infrastructure for its disposal and recycling. While the country has made strides in regulating e-waste management through the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, challenges like informal recycling, lack of awareness, and insufficient infrastructure persist. By adopting global best practices, improving public awareness, integrating the informal sector, and investing in advanced recycling technologies, India can significantly improve its e-waste management system and mitigate environmental and health risks associated with e-waste.