Surge in Electronic Waste Generation in India

India has seen rise in electronic waste (e-waste) generation. The volume increased from 1.01 million metric tonnes (MT) in 2019-20 to 1.751 million MT in 2023-24. This 72.54 per cent surge marks the growing reliance on electronic devices. The increase is particularly notable during the COVID-19 pandemic when work-from-home and remote learning led to higher electronic consumption.

E-Waste Composition and Risks

E-waste contains hazardous materials. These include heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and mercury. Other toxic substances include arsenic and persistent organic pollutants. Improper handling of e-waste can lead to severe environmental and health issues. It is crucial to manage these materials effectively.

Data Collection and Reporting

The government estimates e-waste generation based on sales data from producers. This estimation includes the average lifespan of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). National data covers 21 EEE items under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016. A broader list of 106 items will be reported starting from the fiscal year 2023-24.

Legislative Framework

The E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, effective from April 1, 2023, aim to enhance e-waste management. These rules introduce Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Producers are now accountable for recycling targets based on e-waste generated from their products. They must purchase EPR certificates from registered recyclers to meet these targets.

Role of Bulk Consumers

Public institutions, including schools and government offices, are classified as bulk consumers. According to the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, these entities must ensure e-waste disposal through registered producers or recyclers. This regulation aims to streamline the collection process and improve recycling rates.

Recycling Progress and Challenges

Recent data shows an increase in e-waste recycling. The recycling rate rose from 22 per cent in 2019-20 to 43 per cent in 2023-24. However, about 57 per cent of e-waste remains unprocessed. Experts express concern over the low recycling rate due to inadequate stakeholder engagement.

Integrating Informal Sector

The informal sector plays role in e-waste collection. Experts suggest harnessing this sector to improve recycling efficiency. Proper integration with formal recycling systems is essential for effective e-waste management. This integration can ensure hazardous materials are treated correctly.

Need for Sustainable Practices

There is a pressing need for sustainable recycling practices. Tax incentives could encourage manufacturers to design eco-friendly products. However, the government has yet to implement a tax credit system to motivate the production of sustainable electronics.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the impact of electronic waste on environmental health in urban areas.
2. Critically discuss the role of Extended Producer Responsibility in managing electronic waste.
3. Estimate the challenges faced in integrating the informal sector with formal recycling systems.
4. Point out the significance of sustainable practices in electronic product design and their implications for waste management.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the impact of electronic waste on environmental health in urban areas.

1. E-waste contains hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can leach into soil and water.
2. Improper disposal can lead to air pollution through toxic fumes released during burning.
3. Health risks include respiratory issues, neurological damage, and increased cancer rates among exposed populations.
4. Urban areas, with higher e-waste generation, face greater risks due to dense populations and poor waste management practices.
5. Long-term exposure to e-waste toxins can have cumulative health effects, stressing public health systems.

2. Critically discuss the role of Extended Producer Responsibility in managing electronic waste.

1. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) holds producers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products.
2. Producers must meet recycling targets, encouraging them to design products that are easier to recycle.
3. EPR promotes the establishment of a structured collection and recycling system, enhancing overall waste management.
4. Registered recyclers issue EPR certificates, providing a financial incentive for proper recycling practices.
5. Challenges include ensuring compliance among producers and integrating informal sectors into the formal recycling framework.

3. Estimate the challenges faced in integrating the informal sector with formal recycling systems.

1. The informal sector has extensive coverage for e-waste collection but lacks formal recognition and regulation.
2. There is a risk of unregulated practices leading to improper handling of hazardous materials.
3. Building trust and communication between informal collectors and formal recyclers can be difficult.
4. Informal workers may resist integration due to fear of losing livelihoods or changes in operational methods.
5. Training and resources are needed to align informal practices with formal standards for safety and efficiency.

4. Point out the significance of sustainable practices in electronic product design and their implications for waste management.

1. Sustainable practices promote the design of eco-friendly, recyclable products, reducing the overall e-waste footprint.
2. Encouraging manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices can lead to a decrease in hazardous materials used in products.
3. Tax incentives for sustainable design can drive innovation and encourage manufacturers to prioritize environmental considerations.
4. Sustainable product design contributes to a circular economy, minimizing waste and maximizing resource recovery.
5. Implementing these practices can improve recycling rates and reduce the burden on waste management systems.