Advances in electronics, communication, and information technologies, and increased consumers' affordability and have made Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE) indispensable. The waste arising from end-of-life electronic and electric products referred to as WEEE or simply e-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world.
As per the Global e-waste monitor, 2020, India ranks third in e-waste generation after China and the USA. India is one of the fastest-growing markets for electronics in the world. The Electronics System Design & Manufacturing (ESDM) Industry Report, 2021 anticipates that the electronics industry in India will grow at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 16.6%, from the US $215 billion in FY19 to the US $540 billion in FY25. This will further contribute to the ever-increasing volumes of e-waste.
The disposal of end-of-life EEE products has negative externalities in terms of impact on human health and the environment.
Deployment of indigenous and environmentally safe technologies at various stages for e-waste management will offer a unique opportunity for continuous access to critical materials, reduce carbon footprint, ensure self-reliance in producing various rare metals and fulfill the long-term aspirations for a circular economy.
A framework based on multipronged strategy