Author: 1) Naman Jain, and 2) Sankalp Pathak
What are we worried about? Why are we worried? Is ‘terrorism’ the only worry the world has to be concerned about. If not, then here’s a serious emerging public health and environmental issue for the world. The course of our bright future does not seem so bright when we start to bring in the topic of electronic waste (E-waste). India is the third largest electronic waste producer in the world with approximately 4 million tons annually and with an undisclosed amount of e-waste being imported from other countries around the countries. India, a country of 1.45 billion people with 3.28 sq.km. stands the dumping yard for rest of the world.
Per the ‘2024 Digital Economy Report: Shaping and environmentally sustainable and inclusive digital future’, the UNCTD reports that between 2010 and 2022 India saw the highest growth, 163 per cent, globally in generating electronic waste from screens, computers, and small IT and Telecommunication Equipments (SCSIT). It doubled its share in waste generating in the world from 3.1 per cent (2010) to 6.4 per cent (2022). Also, the per capita growth increased to 131 per cent which is, again, the highest in the world.
E-waste, a popular and informal name for electrical and electronics products nearing the end of their useful life. Many of the products can be reused, refurbished, or recycled. Among many products, the individual components can be reduced to its raw materials for regenerative purposes. India has 1.12 billion active mobile connections in January 2025. Every year, this number is growing exponentially (TRAI).
According to ASSOCHAM, an autonomous industrial body in India, the compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of electronic waste is 30%. As per Entrepreneur, the Indian e-waste management market is forecasted to reach a stunning valuation of USD 5.2 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 13.52% from 2024 to 2032 with increase in uncertainty, changing consumer behaviour, and projected rapid growth.
It has been witnessed in India that the e-waste recycling has been a source of income for many people in India, albeit posing numerous health and environmental risks. More than 95% of India’s e-waste id illegally recycled by informal waste pickers known as scrap traders (locally known as kabadiwalas or raddiwalas). These workers operate independently, outside of any formal organization which makes enforcing e-waste regulations not just difficult but impossible. Recyclers often rely on rudimentary recycling techniques that release toxic pollutants into the surrounding area. The release of toxic pollutants associated with crude e-waste recycling can have far reaching, irreversible consequences.
The e-waste generation in India differs by states. It has been analyzed that Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh are biggest producers of e-waste while the significant contribution comes from Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Delhi, Karnataka, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab. The demography of India allows us to understand that the e-waste is disproportionately generated in urban areas. Around 65 cities have been identified to generate more than 60% of the India’s total e-waste with Mumbai being the largest producer followed by Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kolkata.
Health and Safety
E-waste is a repository of numerous hazardous substances that pose significant risks to both human health and the environment. Unfortunately, it is frequently disposed of without adequate safety measures in place. This is largely because a substantial portion of e-waste is processed illegally by workers operating outside of formal, regulated systems. These informal laborers often employ unregulated and perilous recycling methods, leading to potentially severe health consequences. Regrettably, the recycling labour force exhibits a low literacy rate and limited awareness of the hazards associated with e-waste. Consequently, many of these workers unwittingly partake in activities that jeopardize their health. In Delhi alone, an estimated 25,000 workers including children are involved in crude e-waste dismantling units—annually these units dismantle 10,000–20,000 tons of e-waste with bare hands. They lack proper personal protective equipment and are exposed to toxins through the e-waste. The materials that are not recycled by waste pickers are often left in landfills or burned. Both methods can lead to toxic chemicals leaking into the air, water and soil. Workers in these facilities often do not have adequate safety gear and exposure to e-waste can lead to many health issues. Exposure can happen directly or indirectly through skin contact, inhalation of fine particles and ingestion of contaminated dust. Potential health outcomes from e-waste exposure include changes in thyroid functions, poor neonatal outcomes, including spontaneous abortions, stillbirths and premature births. Side effects also included changes in behaviour and decreased lung function. There is also evidence of significant DNA damage.
Vulnerable populations
Vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, children and the elderly are particularly susceptible to the health risks of e-waste. It is estimated that throughout India, 400,000–500,000 child workers between the ages of 10 and 15 are involved in e-waste recycling activities. Hazardous chemical absorption can have a negative effect on a child’s growth and can cause permanent damages. Children are particularly sensitive to lead poisoning; it is found that the e-waste recycling activities had contributed to the elevated blood lead levels in children. Pregnant women have risks of spontaneous abortions, stillbirths, premature births, and reduced birth weights associated with exposure to the electronic waste.
International Trade
The global waste trade is the international trade of waste between countries for further treatment, disposal, or recycling. Toxic of hazardous wastes are often imported by developing countries from developed countries.
The report by World Bank, “What a Waste 2.0: A Global Snapshot of Solid Waste Management to 2050” and “What a Waste: A Global Review of Solid Waste Management” clearly outlines that the countries of Global North that are more economically developed and urbanized, generates more solid waste than the countries of Global South. This relates to higher the economic development and rate of urbanization, the greater would the generation of solid waste produced.
The recent international waste trade flow patterns highlight that the waste produced by Global North is being exported to and disposed in the countries of Global South. Several simultaneous factors affect the produce of the waste of a country and the magnitude at which it produces which includes the geographical location, degree of industrialization, and level to which they are integrated into the global economy.
Lithium mining requires large quantity of water for pumping and evaporation during brine extraction. It causes significant land degradation including deforestation and soil disturbance. These mining processes have been known to contribute to water and air pollution. It has been evident brine extraction leads to increased salinity of surrounding water bodies. Australia, Chile and China accounts for more than 90% of the world’s lithium supply. As the projected demand for lithium is expect to sixfold between 2022 to 2035, the landscape is most certainly expected to change rapidly. Exploration stage projects have gathered pace across the globe and under no exceptional circumstances Africa is to be left out, as it is considered as the reserve continent of the world’s unexplored minerals and ores. Lithium resources have been found in Zimbabwe, Namibia, Ghana, Mali, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Radio and E-waste
Radioactive elements and electromagnetic radiation are two types of “pollution” associated with radio technology. Naturally occurring radioactive materials like uranium and thorium can be sources of ionizing radiation, while radio waves emitted by electronic devices can cause electromagnetic pollution. Human activities like mining, nuclear weapon testing, and waste disposal from nuclear power plants significantly contribute to radioactive pollution. Exposure to radioactive materials can lead to various health problems, including cancer, leukemia, and other illnesses. While the effects of EMF exposure are still being studied, some research suggests potential health risks, including interference with electronic devices and potential impacts on biological systems. Radio transmitters emit electromagnetic waves. While these waves are generally not considered a significant source of pollution in everyday use, high-powered transmitters can potential contribute to electromagnetic pollution in their immediate vicinity. Radio devices, like other electronic equipments, can be considered e-waste when they are unwanted, not working, or at the end of their useful life. E-waste encompasses a wide range of discarded electronics, including radios, televisions, computers, and more. Due to the presence of potentially harmful materials like lead, cadmium, and mercury, improper disposal of radio devices and other e-waste can pose risks to both human health and the environment. E-waste contains various hazardous materials such as lead, cadmium, mercury, and brominated flame retardants. Improper disposal can release these toxins into the environment, potentially contaminating soil and water sources. Exposure tom these hazardous materials can lead to various health problems, including nervous system damage, kidney issues, and other organ damage. Proper e-waste management, including collection, recycling, and responsible disposal, is crucial to mitigate the risks associated with e-waste. Recycling efforts can recover valuable materials from e-waste while minimizing environmental harm. Specialized equipment like copper wire granulators and separators, is used to recover valuable materials from e-waste including copper and other metals.
Cars and Scrap Policy
India’s vehicle scrappage policy aims to remove unfit and polluting vehicles from the roads and encourage the adoption of newer, more environmentally friendly vehicles. It mandates fitness tests for older vehicles, with those failing the test being recommended for scrapping at Registered Vehicle Scrappage Facilities (RSVFs). This policy also offers incentives like tax rebates and discounts on new vehicle purchases to those who scrap their old vehicles. Vehicles (both commercial and private) older than 15 years must undergo fitness and emission tests. Vehicles failing the fitness test are deemed end-of-life vehicles and are recommended for scrapping at designated RSVFs. Owners scrapping their old vehicles can receive various incentives including 1) Discounts on new vehicle purchases, 2) Road tax rebates in some states, and 3) Exemption from registration fees. The policy aims to formalize the currently informal vehicle scrapping sector, promoting safe and environmentally friendly disposal practices. Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities (RSVFs) and Automated Testing Stations (ATSs) are being established nationwide to support the policy’s implementation. Phasing out unfit vehicles is expected to significantly reduce air pollution and improve overall air quality. Newer vehicles are generally safer due to stricter safety standards. The policy is expected to boost the automotive industry by creating demand for new vehicles. The job establishment of RSVFs and related activities are expected to create new employment opportunities.
One-time -use-pens
They being predominantly plastic pose a significant waste problem. They do not easily decompose and often end up in landfills contributing to plastic pollution. Furthermore, the ink and plastic components can leach harmful substances, potentially polluting soil and water. While recycling is an option, it is often challenging due to mixed materials in pens. Most disposable pens are made from petroleum-based plastics, which don’t break down naturally and persist in the environment for centuries. These pens contribute to the growing problem of landfill waste, taking up valuable space and potentially hindering the decomposition of other waste. Leaking ink and plastic components can release harmful chemicals into the environment, potentially contaminating soil and water sources. As plastic pens degrade, they break down into microplastics, which can enter waterways and pose a threat to marine life. The production of plastic pens relies on fossil fuels, contributing to resource depletion and greenhouse gas emissions. Pens are typically made from a combination of plastic, metal (like the ballpoint), and sometimes rubber, making them difficult to recycle effectively. While some pen recycling programs exist, they are not widely available, and many pens end up in landfills or incinerators.
References
Joon, V., Shahrawat, R., and Kaphi, M., 2017, “The Emerging Environmental and Public Health Problem of Electronic Waste in India”, Journal of Health and Pollution. 7(15): 1-7.
Kaza, S., Yao, L., Bhada-Tata, P., and Van Woerden, F., 2018, “What a Waste 2.0: A Global Snapshot of Solid Waste Management to 2050”. Urban Development Series. Washington DC: World bank. DOI: 10.1596/978-1-4648-1329-0.
Hoornweg, D., and Bhada-Tata, P., 2012, “What a Waste: A Global Review of Solid Waste Management”. Urban Development Series. Washington DC: World Bank.
Naman Jain 