The Indian Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA) recently published a report titled ‘Pathways to Circular Economy in the Indian Electronics Sector.’ The report sheds light on the immediate need for e-waste management reform and identifies opportunities to capitalize on its potential. It suggests that such changes could lead to an additional market opportunity worth USD 7 billion.
Significant Findings from the ICEA Report
According to the ICEA report, India’s e-waste management is primarily informal, with roughly 90% of e-waste collection and 70% of recycling spearheaded by the competitive informal sector. This sector excels at salvaging older electronics for spare parts and successfully performing repairs. Industrial hubs like Moradabad are renowned for processing printed circuit boards to extract valuable materials like gold and silver.
The report stresses the importance of adopting a circular economy approach to e-waste management. China, for instance, aims to use 35% of secondary raw materials in new product manufacturing by 2030, demonstrating a circular economy strategy.
Strategies for Fostering a Circular Economy in E-Waste
The ICEA report proposes several strategies to usher in a circular economy for e-waste in India. These include public-private partnerships for cost-sharing in setting up a reverse supply chain. This complex task involves collecting devices from end-users, erasing personal data, and channeling them for further processing and recycling. It also suggests creating a transparent, auditable database of materials collected through the reverse supply chain process to augment accountability and traceability.
Additionally, the establishment of geographical clusters where discarded devices are collected and dismantled can boost the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the recycling process. Promoting high-yield recycling centers and supporting repair and product longevity are other key policy recommendations.
E-Waste Management in India
India currently ranks third among the world’s largest e-waste generators, preceded only by China and the US. In 2021-22, the volume of e-waste in India swelled to 1.6 million tonnes. A majority of this waste is generated in cities, with 65 cities accounting for over 60% of the total e-waste and ten states responsible for 70%.
In India, electronic waste management was first addressed under the Environment and Forests Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Regulations of 2008. This was followed by the E-waste (Management and Handling) Regulations of 2010, which relied on extended producer’s responsibility. The E-waste (Management) Rules, enacted in 2017 and modified in 2018, broadened the scope of electronic waste management in the country.
How Can India Improve E-Waste Reduction and Recycling?
Efforts to improve e-waste reduction and recycling in India should focus on formalizing e-waste collection through comprehensive regulatory frameworks. Implementing a tax credit system for manufacturers who design products with extended lifespans and repairability features can also prove effective.
Another innovative solution is installing e-waste ATMs in public areas where individuals can deposit old electronics and receive incentives or vouchers in return. Additionally, establishing a blockchain-based system to track the lifecycle of electronic devices would enhance traceability and accountability.
The Role of Art and Awareness in E-Waste Management
Raising awareness about e-waste management through art installations is another innovative approach. These artworks, made from e-waste, could be displayed in public spaces and serve as visual representations of the magnitude of the e-waste problem. This, in turn, encourages proper disposal of electronic waste.
Challenges in Waste Disposal
Despite concerted efforts, challenges persist in the disposal of large quantities of solid waste. Ensuring the safe removal of toxic wastes that accumulate in our living environment remains a significant concern. Sustainable solutions are required to address these issues and to ensure a cleaner and healthier environment.
