The electronics industry stands as the world’s largest and most rapidly expanding manufacturing sector. Recent policy shifts in India have attracted numerous leading multinational companies to establish electronics manufacturing facilities and R&D centers, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic growth and fueling a surge in the consumption of electronic products. However, this economic advancement has also led to a rise in consumer temptation to replace household electronics with newer models, resulting in a heightened rate of obsolescence and the accumulation of e-waste.
Electronic waste, or e-waste, encompasses discarded electronics and electrical goods that are either no longer usable for their intended purpose or have reached the end of their lifecycle. This category includes a wide range of items such as computers, monitors, cell phones, TVs, and household appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners. Despite their perceived efficiency and eco-friendliness, electronics and electrical equipment pose hidden dangers once they become e-waste.
E-waste contains valuable materials like copper, silver, gold, and platinum, which can be recovered through proper processing. However, the improper disposal of electronics products can release harmful materials into the environment, posing serious health risks to humans. To mitigate these dangers, it is crucial to ensure that e-waste is adequately processed and recycled to prevent environmental pollution and protect public health.