E-waste hazard: The impending challenge

Abstract

Electronic waste or e-waste is one of the rapidly growing problems of the world. E-waste comprises of a multitude of components, some containing toxic substances that can have an adverse impact on human health and the environment if not handled properly. In India, e-waste management assumes greater significance not only due to the generation of its own e-waste but also because of the dumping of e-waste from developed countries. This is coupled with India's lack of appropriate infrastructure and procedures for its disposal and recycling. This review article provides a concise overview of India's current e-waste scenario, namely magnitude of the problem, environmental and health hazards, current disposal and recycling operations, existing legal framework, organizations working on this issue and recommendations for action.

PBDEs in the atmosphere over the Asian marginal seas, and the Indian and Atlantic oceans

“…Total waste received and dismantled in India has been estimated to be 146,000 tons per year (CII, 2006). Of the total e-waste generated, western and southern India receives the largest proportions of 35% and 30% of the total, while northern and eastern regions account for 20 and 14%, respectively (Pinto, 2008).…”

E-Waste Management Practices of Households in Melaka

“…The generation of tremendous amount of bulky WEEE is indeed a source of hazardous wastes. If these e-wastes are not handled properly, they cause not only a huge number of waste waiting for disposal, but also pose a severe adverse impact on the environment and human health due to their complex components with toxic and hazardous substances such as lead, beryllium, mercury, cadmium, and brominated flame retardants and many others [5]- [7]. All of these toxic substances jeopardize our rivers and lakes, our air, land and oceans, and eventually our future.…”

Heavy Metal Concentration of Surface Dust Present in E-Waste Components: The Westminister Electronic Market, Lagos Case Study

“…e-waste broadly covers waste from all electronic and electrical appliances and comprises of items such as computers, mobile phones, digital music recorders/players, refrigerators, washing machines, televisions (TVs) and many other household consumer items [1,2]. E-waste products contain intricate blends of plastics and chemicals, which when not properly handled can be harmful to people and the environment [3].…”