Assistant Professor, College of Vocational Studies, University Of Delhi
Online published on 3 February, 2020.
E-waste comprises of wastes generated from used electronic devices and house hold appliances which are not fit for their original intended use and are destined for recovery, recycling or disposal. Such wastes encompasses wide range of electrical and electronic devises such as computers, hand held cellular phones, personal stereos, including large household appliances such as refrigerators, air conditioners etc. E-wastes contain over 1000 different substances many of which are toxic and potentially hazardous to environment and human health, if these are not handled in an environmentally sound manner.
E-waste toxic emission missed with soil and air and causing harmful effect on the environment either directly or indirectly. Direct impact includes release of acids, toxic compounds like heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium etc. And Indirect effects such as bio magnification of heavy metals. Many private firms are involved in collecting, dismantling, separation and exporting e-wastes for recyclers.
Most e-waste ended as rubbish in landfills even though recycling would make economic sense in most cases. Many people junked gadgets, often to buy an upgraded model or because repairs of anything from a toaster to a smart phone were more expensive than buying a replacement. There are organizations across the country that use electronics for recycling.
This paper is outcome of a review of various research studies carried out on Electronic Waste. This paper shows the adverse impact of human health and environment if electronic and electrical wastes are not handled properly in the developing country.
