Hindu Editorial Analysis : 9-July-2024
Electronic waste, commonly known as e-waste, is a pressing global issue. According to the Global E-waste Monitor 2024, published by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and Fondation Carmignac, e-waste is on the rise. This report highlights the alarming statistics and implications of this growing problem.
Key Findings
The report reveals some shocking facts about e-waste production:
- Global Production: In 2022, the world produced 62 billion kg of e-waste.
- Future Projections: This number is expected to increase to 82 billion kg by 2030.
- Recycling Rates: E-waste generation is rising five times faster than recycling efforts.
Composition of E-Waste
The 62 billion kg of e-waste is made up of various materials:
- 31 billion kg of metals
- 17 billion kg of plastics
- 14 billion kg of other materials (minerals, glass, etc.)
Regional Insights
The report also examines e-waste generation and recycling across different regions:
- Europe: Leads with the highest formal collection and recycling rate at 42.8%.
- Africa: Generates the least e-waste but struggles significantly with recycling.
- Asia: Accounts for nearly half of the world’s e-waste (30 billion kg) but has made limited progress in management and legislation.
Impacts and Challenges
E-waste poses severe health and environmental risks. Items that are discarded often contain hazardous substances, such as mercury, which can harm human health, particularly the brain.
Contributing Challenges
Several factors contribute to the growing e-waste problem:
- Rapid technological advancement
- Increased consumer demand
- Limited repair options
- Shorter product life cycles
- Growing dependence on electronic devices
- Poor e-waste management infrastructure
Global Policy Developments
On the policy front, progress has been made, with:
- 81 countries adopting e-waste policies or regulations
- 67 countries implementing legal provisions for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
- 46 countries establishing e-waste collection rate targets
- 36 countries setting e-waste recycling rate targets
Status in India
In India, significant steps have been taken to address e-waste. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change revised the E-Waste (Management) Rules in 2022, which came into effect on April 1, 2023.
Key Provisions
The new rules focus on:
- Environmentally sound management of e-waste
- Enhanced Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for manufacturers and recyclers
- Registration on a centralized portal to streamline processes
- Bridging the informal sector to the formal sector for efficient recycling
- Introduction of provisions for environmental compensation and audits
Why In News
The Global E-waste Monitor 2024, published by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and the Fondation Carmignac—a corporate foundation dedicated to environmental issues—provides crucial insights into the escalating e-waste crisis.
MCQs about The Growing Challenge of E-Waste
- What was the global production of electronic waste (e-waste) in 2022?
A. 50 billion kg
B. 62 billion kg
C. 75 billion kg
D. 82 billion kg
- Which region has the highest documented formal collection and recycling rate of e-waste?
A. Asia
B. Africa
C. Europe
D. North America
- What is one of the main health hazards associated with e-waste?
A. Excessive noise pollution
B. Toxic additives like mercury
C. Overconsumption of energy
D. Water pollution
- What significant change did India implement regarding e-waste management in 2022?
A. Reduced the production of electronic devices
B. Revised the E-Waste (Management) Rules
C. Banned all electronic waste
D. Increased the collection of e-waste in informal sectors
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