As per a 2022 report, the United Nations (UN) said that a significant 57.4 million tonnes of electronic waste (e-waste) were produced all around the world per year, with the probability of the number rising to 74 million tonnes by the year 2030.
India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, and it’s obvious that during such a developing phase, there will be an increase in the usage of electronic products. This only enhances the focus on the need to understand and effectively execute e-waste management systems.
India has already started the process to realize the above through its Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban (SBM-U 2.0) to make cities garbage-free by segregating solid waste via the principle of the 3 Rs (reduce, reuse, and recycle).
At this juncture of the country’s 9th year celebration of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, let’s look at five ways to safely manage e-waste materials.
- Repair old electronic items
Before trying to dispose of your old and used electronic items and turn them into e-waste materials, try and look at ways in which you can repair them and increase their shelf life. This way, you will be able to use them for a longer time, save money from purchasing another new item, and also help not contribute to e-waste.
- Give electronic items to a certified e-waste recycler
A great way to safely dispose of your e-waste is to give it to a bona fide e-waste recycler. They know the right and responsible ways to dispose of and manage e-waste materials. However, before giving the items to the e-waste recycler, ensure that you format each and every device for your personal information and also take out the batteries from them.
- Sell your electronic devices
One person’s garbage can be another’s gain. If you have no requirement for a particular electronic device(s), rather than throwing them away, sell them on various websites like Olx, eBay, Craigslist, or to someone you know in person. This way, you will ensure that you are not contributing to e-waste and that your device is effectively getting re-used.
- Donate electronic items
There are various institutions—educational and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)—that are in need of used electronic goods. Identify such organizations and donate your electronic items so that they are effectively used and not turned into e-waste. Before donating, ensure that the items are in full functional condition and don’t have any of your personal information.
- Make use of company exchange policies
Nowadays, numerous electronic device companies have exchange policies where you can trade in your old and used items to get a new one at a discounted price. Keep track of such offers and company policies, and use them effectively when you have to change your electronic devices rather than disposing of them completely and turning them into e-waste.
Reports stated that in today’s day and age, people’s lifestyle choices are often measured by their frequent purchases of new-age electronic devices. This will only lead to more e-waste in the near future and, thus, more stringent measures for e-waste disposal.
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