Hindu Editorial Analysis :13-September-2024
The Global E-waste Monitor 2024, produced by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and Fondation Carmignac, highlights a pressing global issue: the rising production of electronic waste, or e-waste. This report reveals alarming statistics and trends regarding e-waste and its management around the world.
Key Findings
E-Waste Production
- In 2022, the world generated a staggering 62 billion kilograms of e-waste.
- This figure is expected to increase to 82 billion kilograms by 2030.
- E-waste generation is currently rising five times faster than the rate of recycling.
Composition of E-Waste
The 62 billion kg of e-waste is made up of:
- 31 billion kg of metals
- 17 billion kg of plastics
- 14 billion kg of other materials (including minerals, glass, and composite materials)
Regional Insights
- Europe leads in formal e-waste collection and recycling with a rate of 42.8 percent.
- Africa generates the least e-waste but faces significant challenges in recycling it.
- Asia is responsible for almost half of the world’s e-waste (30 billion kg) but has made limited progress in managing this waste. Many countries in this region lack proper legislation or clear targets for e-waste collection.
Impacts and Challenges
E-waste is not just a disposal issue; it poses serious health and environmental risks. Many e-waste products contain toxic substances, such as mercury, which can harm human health, particularly the brain and coordination system. The challenges contributing to the increasing e-waste problem include:
- Rapid technological advancements
- Increased consumer demand
- Limited repair options
- Shorter product life cycles
- Insufficient e-waste management infrastructure
Global Policy Efforts
Despite the challenges, there is some progress in policy. As of now:
- 81 countries have established e-waste policies or regulations.
- 67 countries have legal provisions for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regarding e-waste.
- 46 countries have set targets for e-waste collection rates.
- 36 countries have established targets for e-waste recycling rates.
Status in India
In India, the situation is evolving. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has revised the E-Waste (Management) Rules, initially introduced in 2016. The new E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022 became effective on April 1, 2023. These rules aim to:
- Manage e-waste in an environmentally friendly way
- Improve the EPR regime for e-waste recycling
- Require manufacturers, producers, refurbishers, and recyclers to register on a portal developed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
- Facilitate the transition of the informal sector to the formal sector for e-waste recycling
Additionally, the new rules include provisions for environmental compensation and processes for verification and auditing.
Why In News
The Global E-waste Monitor 2024, produced by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and Fondation Carmignac, a corporate foundation dedicated to environmental issues, provides crucial insights into the escalating global e-waste crisis and highlights the urgent need for effective management strategies.
MCQs about Global E-Waste Crisis
- What was the total amount of electronic waste (e-waste) produced worldwide in 2022, according to the Global E-waste Monitor 2024?
A. 30 billion kg
B. 62 billion kg
C. 82 billion kg
D. 42.8 percent
- Which region has the highest rate of documented formal collection and recycling of e-waste?
A. Asia
B. Africa
C. Europe
D. North America
- What is one of the significant health risks associated with e-waste?
A. Increased temperature
B. Toxic substances like mercury
C. Carbon emissions
D. Noise pollution
- How many countries have established legal provisions for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regarding e-waste?
A. 46 countries
B. 36 countries
C. 67 countries
D. 81 countries
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